Modal analysis of prestressed draft pad of freight wagons using finite element method

The present work intends to investigate dynamic behaviour of draft gear using finite element method. The longitudinal force that the draft gear absorbs usually leads to the failure of its components, especially, the load bearing draft pads. Dynamic behaviour of an individual draft pad and a draft gear is determined and characterized with exciting frequencies and corresponding mode shapes. The effect of compressive prestress load on the dynamic behaviour of an individual draft pad is also determined as the draft pads in assembled state are under constant axial compressive force in the draft gear. The vibration characteristics of individual draft pad are compared with draft pads that are part of draft gear. The modal analysis gives us a basis for subjecting a draft pad to higher frequency loading for determining its fatigue behaviour.