​Coning of Wheels Concept in Railway Engineering

​Coning of wheels is a concept in railway engineering that refers to the inclination of the wheelsets of a railway vehicle. The wheels of a railway vehicle are coned at an angle to the horizontal plane so that they can naturally maintain the position on the rails, particularly when going around curves or bends. This phenomenon is essential for the stability and safety of railway operations.

The basic principle of coning is that the outer rail of a curve should have a larger radius than the inner rail. This creates a natural inward force on the outer wheel and an outward force on the inner wheel, which helps to keep the wheels on the tracks. This force is known as the lateral force and is a result of the conical shape of the wheels.

When a railway vehicle enters a curve, the outer wheel travels a greater distance than the inner wheel. The conical shape of the wheels means that the outer wheel has a larger diameter than the inner wheel, which results in a longer distance being covered by the outer wheel in the same amount of time. The difference in distance causes the outer wheel to travel faster than the inner wheel, and this speed difference generates the lateral force.

The angle of coning of the wheels is determined by various factors such as the track gauge, the weight of the vehicle, the speed at which the vehicle is traveling, and the radius of the curve. Generally, the angle of coning is around 1 in 20, which means that the wheel angle is inclined at approximately 2.86 degrees.

One of the main advantages of coning of wheels is that it reduces the amount of wear and tear on the wheels and the rails. Without coning, the wheels would slide across the rails, causing significant damage to both the wheels and the rails. The conical shape ensures that the wheels remain in contact with the rails, reducing friction and wear.

Another advantage of coning of wheels is that it helps to reduce the likelihood of derailments. The lateral force generated by the coning of wheels helps to keep the wheels on the tracks, particularly during high-speed travel around curves. Without coning, the wheels would be more likely to lift off the tracks, leading to derailments and accidents.

In conclusion, coning of wheels is an essential concept in railway engineering that helps to ensure the stability and safety of railway operations. The conical shape of the wheels helps to generate the lateral force, which keeps the wheels in contact with the rails and reduces wear and tear on the wheels and the rails. The angle of coning is determined by various factors and is typically around 1 in 20. Coning of wheels is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of railway systems.