Fatigue life reliability evaluation in a high-speed train bogie frame using accelerated life and numerical test

Durability fatigue tests for full-scale structures are essential to ensure the fatigue reliability and operational safety of high-speed trains. An accelerated life test (ALT) method is first used to predict the fatigue life of a full-scale bogie frame. Three step-up acceleration load spectrum is compiled for an ALT on the basis of the failure mechanism consistency principle. The ALT of a full-scale bogie frame is conducted. Then, the acceleration coefficient and cycle times from the accelerated load level to the working load level are calculated. Based on the equal damage principle, combined with the finite element calculation, the fatigue life of the bogie frame under acceleration load spectrum is extrapolated. The ALT method is used to compile the acceleration load spectrum and to perform fatigue tests to analyze the acceleration coefficients and predict the fatigue life for a full-scale bogie frame, which provides a reference for the reliability evaluation of large structures.