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Structures and Dynamics Division

This Division applies structures, dynamics and materials engineering disciplines as a core capability in the continuing assessment of the structural integrity, durability and performance of equipment and track components. It performs studies and related investigations employing computer simulation, laboratory testing and field testing of rail vehicle interactions with track and other factors influencing motion and forces.

Division members maintain specific expertise in the areas of impact energy management, measurement and instrumentation design, mechanics of wear and failure of ground system components, including vehicles and guideways. They also maintain and apply engineering expertise in rail system dynamics to the assessment of the dynamic performance of rail equipment, trains and locomotives and other ground transportation vehicles and track train interaction dynamics to define load environments for equipment and track structural components. Recent investigations include curving performance of high-speed rail vehicles and the crashworthiness mechanics of rail systems.

The Division develops and maintains a technological data base on structures, dynamics, and materials characteristics of current and projected transportation components. It applies materials engineering technologies to (a) the prediction of transportation system component behavior in environments encountered in service, and (b) the improvement of component serviceability. This activity will include (1) the wear and failure characteristics of rails, wheels, axles, side-frame, trucks, couplers, draft gear, brakes, vehicle structure, bridges and pipelines, and (2) the deterioration characteristics of ties, ballast materials and polymeric materials.

The Structures and Dynamics Division plans, manages, implements and interprets analytic and experimental investigations of vehicles and guideway structures, dynamics and materials behavior. Analytic activities include computer simulations; experimental investigations including both small and large scale laboratory and field testing.

Staff maintains, advances and disseminates expertise in materials engineering (metallurgy and materials science) so as to provide a basis for preparing component manufacturing, performance, inspection and maintenance specification guidelines. They also participate in industry/government committees and task forces (both nationally and internationally) for the conduct of cooperative projects to further the goals of improved safety and serviceability as required.