In this study, the hunting characteristics of a new-type independently rotating wheelset(IRW) with negative tread conicity is verified experimentally. In order to improve curving performance of low-floor light rail vehicles(LRVs), the new-type IRW has been proposed. In previous study conducted by Prof. Suda et al., it has been demonstrated with numerical simulation that unstable hunting motion whose frequency decreases as the running velocity increases occurs in the new-type IRW. In addition, it has been proved that the hunting stability of the new-type IRW can be improved with longitudinal stiffness. In this investigation, experimental equipment with scaled-model roller rig is developed to clarify those characteristics of the new-type IRW. It is demonstrated that the new-type IRW used in experimental vehicle has same hunting characteristics of the simulation model. Furthermore, improvement of hunting stability of the new-type IRW with longitudinal stiffness is proven.
