OptiTrib
Tribological Optimization of Tire-Rail Contacts for Decarbonized and Sustainable Rail Mobility
OptiTrib is developing an experimental and numerical methodology (tire texturing, tribological testing, finite element simulation, AI) to optimize tire-rail contact, reduce wear and energy losses, and support the low-carbon rehabilitation of secondary rail lines (LAMIH–ECL).
Overview
The OptiTrib project, led by LAMIH (UPHF) in partnership with École Centrale de Lyon, aims to optimize tire-to-rail contact in alternative or hybrid rail systems in order to promote the low-carbon rehabilitation of secondary rail lines.
The methodology combines four pillars:
- tire surface texturing to modulate contact,
- advanced tribological testing (pin-on-disk test bench and tire/rail rolling device under real dynamic conditions),
- multi-physics finite element modeling of stresses and thermomechanical interactions
- machine learning algorithms to predict optimal conditions and provide tools to support industrial decision-making.
Aligned with the National Acceleration Strategy “Decarbonized and Smart Mobility” and SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13, OptiTrib will deliver a validated numerical model, an open experimental database, and a prototype predictive tool.
In a nutshell
| Department(s) | Partner(s) | Total Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | 91 k€ | |
| Main funding source | Outreach | Date(s) |
| ANR, Sci-Ty | National | 2025–2028 |
Keywords
railway, tribology, surface texturing