Locomotive Reliability Assessment Method

Abstract. The authors describe the analysis of the current state of the problem under consideration. A definition of "averaged failure flow parameter" is given. The periods of traction rolling stock life cycle are considered. The assumption of event distribution laws exponentiality is introduced, which makes it possible to obtain expressions of the main reliability indices in the analytical form. The work of depot service locomotives to ensure the required reliability and readiness of the rolling stock during their normal operation has been assessed. The introduction of the term "readiness" into the modern practice of traction rolling stock reliability estimation is considered. The initial data for calculating the indexes of locomotive uptime and readiness are presented. Calculated values of readiness and no-failure indices of electric locomotives in operation are obtained. The calculated values of internal and technical availability coefficients are compared with similar indicators established by technical specifications. Control procedures were performed to determine the compliance of each set of locomotives (EP1, 2ES4K) with the uptime requirements. As a result of comparing the calculated values of internal and technical availability factors (for electric locomotives EP1 and 2ES4K with analogous values set by specifications (EP1 and 2ES4K) it was determined that the surveyed locomotives comply with the established availability requirements. As a result of control procedures to determine the compliance of each set of EP1 and 2ES4K locomotives with the uptime requirements, it was determined that the set of 2ES4K electric locomotives for the run in question does not fully comply with the uptime requirement. And the set of EP1 electric locomotives meets the reliability requirements, but the error value is higher than 20%. To clarify both events, it is necessary to increase the mileage interval of the locomotives and repeat the procedure for determining compliance with the uptime requirements. The method of assessing the uptime and readiness of locomotives during their normal operation makes it possible to identify existing shortcomings in the operation of rolling stock and to form measures to improve the quality of rolling stock operation.