Effects of Track Geometry and Track Components on Rail Performance
(Room M 100 C)
24 Sep 19
11:00 AM
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11:30 AM
Tracks:
AREMA Technical Sessions By Functional Group- Track, Technical Sessions By Day- Tuesday
Studies done at the Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (FAST) at Transportation Technology Center, Inc. (TTCI) have shown that track gage (within the range allowed under the track safety standards) affects rail performance in terms of wear and rolling contact fatigue (RCF). An ongoing study of 800 feet of intermediate strength rail installed on narrow gage (56 ΒΌ inches) is showing higher wear primarily on the low rail and continuous band of top of low rail RCF. The same curve having the same length and same type of rail but installed on wider gage (57 inches) is showing less wear on the low rail and sporadic but deeper RCF cracks. Simulations indicate differences in dynamic forces from variation in truck steering due to change in track gage. Position of the wheels in contact with the low rail corresponds well with low rail RCF performance. A four-year study has shown crosstie or fastener types result in small differences in rail wear. Rail profile measurements were analyzed using general regression and general linear models for statistical correlation among rail gage face wear, and track geometry parameters. Zones with cut spike fasteners, which allowed more gage widening, showed less gage face wear. Crosstie types had minimal effects on both gage wear and delta gage. Cross level also affected gage wear, independent of track gage. Changes in cross level may cause differences in steering of trucks, which might cause changes in wheel/rail contact and lateral forces leading to changes in gage wear. *Missed this Session or want to view it again? Stop by the VirtualAREMA kiosk located in the Registration area to purchase this product today!