Abstract
Lubrication on sharp curves has been commonly adopted as a method of reducing friction between the wheel flange and rail gauge face to minimize wear and energy consumption. Additionally, lubrication between the running surface of the low-rail and the wheel tread has recently been recognized as a significant factor in reducing the likelihood of low-rail corrugation, squealing noise and rail gauge face wear. This paper describes a friction-moderating system (FRIMOS) for the interface between the top of the low-rail and the wheel tread, consisting of a solid lubricant known as a friction moderator and a jetting device installed on the vehicle to apply the moderator to the wheel/rail interface.