During train operation, geometrical irregularities develop in soil-supported ballasted railway tracks as a function of the carried tonnage. This form of degradation is combatted by periodic tamping using specially equipped trains, in order to guarantee predefined levels of structural performance. In general, the design of a railway track can be optimized with respect to its structural performance over the whole lifecycle. However, for existing lines this is difficult, and the only way to limit degradation and associated costs is to influence the condition of the rolling stock. The present study discusses the theoretical background of track degradation in the form of differential settlements. It then shows the results of an analysis of the loading conditions on Dutch railway lines, at network and local levels, based on actual measurements. Conclusions are drawn regarding deterioration and the effects of different loading types. The obtained results show that huge improvements are possible on mixed lines, and in particular, on freight lines, with reductions in geometrical degradation up to 52% of actual values.
Railway track degradation: The contribution of rolling stock
2016
Article (Journal)
English
Railway track degradation: The contribution of rolling stock
SAGE Publications | 2016
|Engineering Index Backfile | 1928
|DINING CAR FOR RAILWAY ROLLING STOCK AND RAILWAY ROLLING STOCK
European Patent Office | 2021
|Railway rolling stock refurbishment
British Library Online Contents | 1998
|