Sliding wear and corrosion resistance of train overhead line contact wire

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical sliding wear and corrosion resistance property of pure copper (Cu) and two copper alloys (CuAg ,CuNiSiCr) overhead contact wire were investigated by a pin-on-disc Tribometer which is designed and constructed as part of this thesis to simulate contact wire and collector (contact) strips contact, with mechanical and electro -chemical measurement. The copper alloys which were prepared in the form of pin, were forced to slide on stainless steel disc at temperature of 28⁰c and unlubricated condition at a sliding speed of 80 km/hr under normal load up to 10.24 N without electric current. Corrosion test was also conducted in acid, rain, salt environmental condition and in notch stress. The worn surface, wear debris and the corrosion from the specimens were studied by metallurgical microscopes and the weight loss measured by analytical balance. Finally, the CuNiSiCr copper alloy has better wear and corrosion resistance property and also takes less purchase cost. Hence, the material is recommended for Addis Ababa light rail transit overhead line contact wire.

Keywords: mechanical sliding wear, corrosion, a pin-on-disc, Tribometer, overhead line contact wire