Capillary Distributor for Rail Lubrication with Solid Particles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubrication technologies face challenges in distributing lubricants with high solid particle content, such as metal particles, under extreme pressures and temperatures, leading to uneven distribution and increased wear on rails and wheel rims in curved sections, resulting in screeching noises and excessive wear.
Innovation Solution
A capillary distributor system comprising an inlet tube, capillary distribution device, and housing with thin capillaries of varying diameters and lengths, featuring angled inlet holes for precise and uniform delivery of lubricant, optimized for the size of granulates, and made from materials like metal or plastics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional distribution devices are used for lubricants with high solid particle content, then the distribution process is simple, but the distribution uniformity deteriorates and metal sealing causes moving parts to seize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capillary distributor as an intermediary device between the lubricant reservoir and the application point. This capillary-based intermediate system replaces direct metal sealing contacts, allowing lubricant with high solid particle content to be distributed uniformly without causing moving parts to seize. The capillaries act as a mediator that handles the abrasive lubricant without transmitting mechanical stress to moving components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical distribution mechanisms (which rely on metal seals and moving parts) with a capillary-based distribution system. The capillaries use surface tension and capillary action rather than mechanical contact to control lubricant flow, eliminating the seizure problem associated with metal sealing while maintaining distribution precision.
2Strength
If lubricants with high solid particle content are used, then extreme pressures and temperatures are withstood, but distribution becomes uneven and waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the capillary dimensions (diameter and length) to match the specific requirements of different distribution points. Each capillary can be optimized for its local function, ensuring uniform distribution of the high-viscosity, particle-laden lubricant across different locations with varying flow requirements, thereby maintaining both strength properties and distribution precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the distribution system by using capillaries with specifically controlled diameter and length ratios. This parameter optimization allows the system to handle lubricants with high solid particle content and extreme pressure/temperature resistance while achieving uniform distribution, as the capillary dimensions are tuned to compensate for the lubricant's high viscosity and particle loading.
3Device complexity
If conventional distribution methods are used, then device complexity is low, but lubricant consumption increases and environmental pollution worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary distributor operates on self-service principles by utilizing capillary action and surface tension to control lubricant flow without requiring external power sources or complex control mechanisms. The system automatically regulates the lubricant delivery to achieve uniform distribution and minimize waste, reducing both device complexity and lubricant consumption simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures consistent and repeatable delivery of lubricant quantities, reducing waste and operational costs while minimizing environmental pollution and extending the lifespan of rail components by maintaining low lubricant usage and uniform distribution.
Implementation Method 1
A capillary distributor according to Claim 1 solves the above described technical problem. As successful solution for providing of constantly even quantity of the matter at the exits from the lubricating device is distribution of the material through so called capillary distributor.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The subject of this invention is capillary distributor and spreading knife for rail lubrication while using special depositing materials. As successful solution for providing of constantly even quantity of the matter at the exits from the lubricating device is distribution of the material through so called capillary distributor. Capillary distributor is comprised in particular of an inlet tube, capillary distribution device, capillaries, and housing. The distributor is comprised of arbitrary number of thin capillaries - tubes of desired length. It is important that the inlet holes are separated with as thin wall as possible. Depending on size of granulates (solid particles) which comprise material for distribution one can determine optimum diameter of holes and length of capillaries - tubes. Said tubes can be inserted into holes in the rail head or into the grooves inside the spreading knife whereas the spreading knife can have arbitrary number of grooves.