TRACK FORMATION IMPROVEMENT IN HOLLAND

On the main line of the Netherlands Railways from Utrecht to Rotterdam, a seven mile section between Oudewater and Gouda passes through an area of waterlogged peat moor. Two methods were tried, in 1938, to strengthen the foundation for the track. The first method provided for the construction of two dams of sand, which completely enclosed the embankment. Large quantities of sand were deposited quickly, and the weight of this material pushed the semi-liquid peat aside. In the second method, the sand was deposited gradually, so that the peat became more compact, and less likely to move. The second method was used until 1948 due to the expense and the risk of serious disturbance of the track present with use of the first method. A third method was introduced in 1949. The top of the embankment is removed and replaced by a reinforced layer of fine sludge slag. This slag hardens into a substance resembling concrete. A layer of sand is placed between the top surface of the slag and the gravel ballast. Some 5-1/2 miles of double track are to be strengthened in this way.

• Corporate Authors:

  Temple Press Limited

  161-166 Fleet Street
  Longon EC4,   England 
• Publication Date: 1949-5-20

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 543-544
• Serial:
  • RAILWAY GAZETTE
  • Volume: 90

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Ballast (Railroads); Defects; Maintenance of way; Railroad tracks; Soil mechanics; Soil stabilization; Stability (Mechanics); Structural design; Subgrade (Pavements); Technology
• Uncontrolled Terms: Ballast; Depressions (Indentations); Track design; Track stability
• Geographic Terms: Netherlands
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00037282
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 8 1994 12:00AM