Data-driven ballast layer degradation identification and maintenance decision based on track geometry irregularities

Ballast layer defects are the primary cause for rapid track geometry degradation. Detecting these defects in real-time during track inspections is urgently needed to ensure safe train operations. To achieve this, an indicator, the track degradation rate (TDR) was proposed. This rate is calculated using track geometry inspection data to locate and predict railway-line sections with ballast layer defects. The TDR is determined by the monthly standard deviation of the rail longitudinal level, which is one aspect of track geometry. The Ballast Layer Health Classification (BLHC) is designed by assessing the two successive TDRs before and after track geometry maintenance actions. The BLHC is used to categorize the conditions of the ballast layer, including normal periodic deterioration, abrupt deterioration, effective maintenance, rising deterioration, and severe deterioration. Both the TDR and BLHC were validated through field assessments of ballast layer conditions, where the two indicators were found to be effective in revealing defects. The results indicate that the TDR is sensitive to ballast layer defects, while the BLHC can quickly identify the location of these defects. Consequently, the BLHC can provide real-time guidance for ballast layer maintenance.

• Record URL:
  • https://doi.org/10.1080/23248378.2023.2228802
• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/23248378
• Supplemental Notes:
  • © 2023 The Authors. Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. Abstract reprinted with permission of Taylor & Francis.
• Authors:
  • Zhao, Wenbo
  • Qiang, Weile
  • Yang, Fei
  • Jing, Guoqing
  • Guo, Yunlong
  • 0000-0003-4339-1833
• Publication Date: 2024-7

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 581-603
• Serial:
  • International Journal of Rail Transportation
  • Volume: 12
  • Issue Number: 4
  • Publisher: Taylor & Francis
  • ISSN: 2324-8378
  • EISSN: 2324-8386
  • Serial URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/tjrt20

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Ballast (Railroads); Defects; Detection and identification system applications; Deterioration; Maintenance of way; Railroad tracks
• Subject Areas: Maintenance and Preservation; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01927916
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 22 2024 3:09PM