Development and performance evaluation of traction system for steep gradient and sharp curve track

In this study, core technologies of a traction system on a mountain tram operating on the track of mountain road full of sharp curves and steep gradients were developed. In domestic mountain resort areas, sometimes the transportation service is not provided in winter because of ice and heavy snow on roads, so a mountain railway service independent of the climate and geographic conditions is needed. A traction system was designed taking into account of the power of a traction motor to climb the gradient of 120 ‰, which is common in domestic mountainous areas. and power transmission system was designed to consider the installation space for the traction system. In addition, a reduction gear and a propeller shaft were developed. An elastic pinion was developed and applied to the rack & pinion bogie system for steep gradient so that noise and vibration generated by contact between the steel gears could be reduced. Impact comparison tests showed that the vibration level of the elastic pinion is one-third lower than that of previous steel pinion. Independent rotating wheels and axles were developed for the bogie system to operate on the sharp curve of a 10 meter radius. In addition, the band braking system was developed to enhance the braking force during running on the steep gradient. A test for the braking force showed it exerts the required braking force. The performance of the developed core components were verified by the tests and finally they were applied to the bogie system running on the track of steep gradient and sharp curve.