Rolling bearing life estimation based on measured wheel-rail forces for conventional and innovative wheelsets

Validation of bearings for railway wheelsets is performed by using international standards. This approach reflects both the long experience and the uncertainty in the actual loads that depends on the service performed by the vehicle. It is applicable only when “conventional” bearings are used, i.e. a pair of rolling bearings installed on journal seats at the end of the axle or between the wheels. This paper evaluates the life of such bearings on the basis of a given mixed service and compares it to the life of the bearings equipping a new wheelset with “apparently” independently rotating wheels.