Modal analysis and validation of the traction motor frame model NB-514B of the 2(3)ES5K electric locomotive

Abstract

This study presents the numerical modeling of shell vibrations using the traction motor frame NB-514 and cylindrical tanks as reference objects. A convergence analysis of the modeled vibrations was performed by comparing them with physical experiments. Special attention is paid to the mesh convergence and its critical impact on the accuracy of determining the fundamental mode frequency. The study has shown that achieving satisfactory convergence of modeling results requires reliable boundary conditions and the use of a finite element mesh with a step size not exceeding 3–5 times the wall thickness of the shell. Compliance with these conditions significantly reduces the modeling error of the fundamental frequency, bringing it down to approximately 10 % relative to experimental data. The results confirm the high efficiency and broad applicability of the finite element method for the numerical analysis of complex structures. This also represents an important step toward the development of digital twins of engineering products. The proposed methodology significantly reduces the need for physical testing and greatly improves the accuracy of equipment performance prediction. The work advances modern and innovative approaches to the study, design, and reliability improvement of locomotive electrical equipment, making it highly relevant for modern locomotive engineering and opening up new opportunities for integrating numerical simulation into the design and operational practices of traction rolling stock.