Abstract:There are two analysis methodologies available for predicting brake squeal using the finite element method, namely, complex eigenvalue analysis method and dynamic transient analysis method. Not all the unstable frequency obtained using complex eigenvalue analysis method can be observed in experiments, while transient analysis method is able to predict real unstable frequency in theory. A transient dynamic model of a wheel disc brake system of EMU was established to study friction induced self excited vibration of the brake system, in which the friction coupling between brake pads and disc was imposed. Results show that the value of the dominant vibration frequency of the contact force between the brake pad and disc is consistent with that of the normal vibration of the brake pad. The dominant vibration frequency obtained by the transient analysis method is very close to the value of the unstable frequency obtained by the complex eigenvalue method.