In order to analyze effect of pantograph arc on temperature distribution of contact wire

a threedimensional finite element simulation model for friction pair in pantograph and catenary system is established with COMSOL Multiphysics software. The temperature distribution characteristics under different contact wire and different environment conditions are obtained. Result shows that temperature of copper and magnesium alloy wire

pure copper wire and copper and tin alloy wire increases in turn under the same conditions. The larger the crosssection of contact wire

the higher the temperature is. The temperature of contact wire operated respectively under normal

ice coating and wet condition increases in turn. Simulation results can be a reference for the choice of contact wire and reducing arc erosion.