Analysis and prediction of vibration characteristics of electromagnetic relays

Abstract During the operation of rolling stock, wheel-rail vibrations, coupled with the excitation of the bogie’s nodding motion, will induce vertical vibrations in the vehicle body as well as its equipment. Electromagnetic relays are critical onboard signaling devices that require robust vibration resistance. In this regard, this research employs a specific model of relays to construct a dynamic model of the relay system, thus analyzing diverse primary factors influencing the vibration characteristics of the system based on the theory of vibration mechanics. Subsequently, this research conducts the modal simulation analysis of the relay system based on Hertz’s contact theory to validate the theoretical model. The results reveal that the vibration characteristics of the relay system are associated with local contact stiffness. Specifically, increasing the contact stiffness or pressure between the armature and the limit frame improves the vertical natural vibration frequency of the system. Hence, the vibration resistance of the relay system can be predicted through the control of the pressure between the armature and the limit frame, which is validated through simulation and experiments featuring random vibrations. In short, the proposed method is applicable for rapid prediction of vibration resistance during the production of vehicle relays, ensuring the consistency of product quality and fulfilling the requirements of various application scenarios of rolling stock.