In case of a single rail break, there are at least two known formulas to compute the breathing length, one uses half-tie resistance and the other uses full-tie resistance. As a result, the possible values of the breathing length and hence, the rail break gap, differ by 100%, thus warranting further research. Herein, we review these two calculations, plus a proposed method, to compute breathing length and rail break gap by using a more effective tie resistance value. The rail break gap in freezing temperatures under three contexts is computed, discussed, and summarised. The point at the end of the track where both rails are free to move and the axial force increases from zero to a temperature load of ΔT is typically referred to as the breathing length. The breathing length due to a single rail break in the non-breathing portion of a continuously-welded rail track may not be expected to have the same breathing length at the end of the track. Thus, breathing lengths under two scenarios are discussed. Further research is suggested to resolve the issue of breathing length definition and the two issues related to the effect of freezing temperatures on ballast resistance.
Rail Break Gap in a Frozen Ballasted Track
International Conference on Transportation and Development 2022 ; 2022 ; Seattle, Washington
2022-08-31
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English
Rail Break Gap in a Frozen Ballasted Track
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