Tentative implementation of on-line diagnostics of electric multi-unit pantograph in Lithuanian Railways

Abstract

The task of modern diagnostics of electric rail vehicles is to determine online the technical condition of the contact of the rolling stock's pantographs with the catenary wire. The quality of electrical current collection and the wear rate of the pantograph completely depends on the pantograph/wire dynamic interaction. The article discusses the possibilities of installing and using modern diagnostic tools for electric multi-unit pantographs on the electrified lines of the Lithuanian Railways (LTG). In order to increase the efficiency of servicing pantographs and reduce costs, the maintenance of pantographs is being improved based on data from monitoring their technical condition. The criteria for detecting (recognizing) damage to the pantograph and the parameters of damage signals have been determined. The trial drives were carried out using the vibration measurement device made by “LTG Infra” specialists. The interaction dynamics of the pantograph and catenary wire during multi-unit driving process was investigated. A malfunction - the exceeded impact of the pantograph on the network wire - was detected on the “Vilnius-Kaunas” railway section. Finally, conclusions and plans for future applied research are presented.