Gauge widening, which is an increase in the distance between the rails beyond the specified gauge (standard, narrow, or broad), negatively affects train dynamics and stability by increasing the lateral movement of the wheelsets, leading to increased wheel-rail forces and potentially derailment. When the gauge widens, the wheelsets have more freedom to move laterally within the track structure. This increased lateral movement can cause the wheels to strike the rails with greater force, particularly on ....
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