Rational design method for prestressed concrete sleepers
Austrak Pty Ltd has developed and patented, in association with The University of Queensland, a Rational Design Method for the development and validation of prestressed concrete sleeper designs. This design method uses a measured (or assumed) wheel loading spectrum as the key design input. A wheel loading spectrum plots the impact factor (based on a nominal axle load) against probability of occurrence. The design method is based on “limit states” concepts that utilise well documented and accepted engineering principals to assess the performance of a sleeper design, subjected to the design wheel loading spectrum. These methods assess the performance of the sleeper against failure by overload in bending, failure by fatigue and durability requirements. The patented Rational Design Method uses a design process that uses actual traffic characteristics, real track conditions, and proven material capabilities in order to develop a sleeper suited specifically to our clients needs. The Rational Design Method has specific application for prestressed concrete sleepers designed for use in timber sleepered track. This paper describes the Austrak Rational Design Method and details the application of this method in the development of a Timber Replacement Sleeper for a rail infrastructure network.
- Record URL:
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Authors:
- Nairn J
- Stevens N
- Conference:
- Publication Date: 2010
Media Info
- Pagination: 17p.
- Monograph Title: Rejuvenation and renaissance: CORE 2010: conference on railway engineering, 12-15 September 2010, Wellington, New Zealand
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Concrete; Design; Foundations; Railroad rails
- ATRI Terms: Concrete; Design; Foundation; Railway track
- Subject Areas: Design; Railroads;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01517071
- Record Type: Publication
- Source Agency: ARRB
- Files: ATRI
- Created Date: Mar 4 2014 8:06PM