USE OF TRACK GEOMETRY MEASUREMENTS FOR MAINTENANCE PLANNING

Track geometry measurements are discussed as a means of evaluating the functional condition of track. Examples are given of track vertical profile geometry data from a heavy haul line obtained by a laser survey and by a track recording car. Bad sites with rapid geometry deterioration are compared with good sites with stable geometry. The mid-chord ordinate measurement procedure used by the recording car is described, and two methods to backcalculate the track longitudinal profile from this measurement are presented. A definition of track roughness based on the vertical geometry data is proposed. Examples are given of the use of roughness to identify track sections having similar maintenance needs and to project the amount of traffic when geometry corrections will be required. The results of the research suggest that considerable potential for cost savings exists from use of track geometry data in maintenance planning beyond that normally considered by the railroad where the measurements were made.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Features: Figures; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: p. 84-92
  • Monograph Title: Railroad research issues
  • Serial:

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00677730
  • Record Type: Publication
  • ISBN: 0309061016
  • Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
  • Created Date: May 22 1995 12:00AM