STATUS OF COOPERATIVE RESEARCH ON WOOD TIES BETWEEN THE RAILWAY TIE ASSOCIATION AND THE AAR RESEARCH CENTER

Tie space was studied analytically using Talbot's formula, in laboratory tests using hydraulic pulsating loading jacks, and using test track on a field test. Cross ties of three cross sections, 6 x 8 inches, 7 x 9 inch, and 8 x 10 inch, and three lengths, 8 ft, 8.5 ft. and 9 ft. for a total of nine combinations, were used for all three tests. The study of the effects of tie size and spacing showed that irregularities in track cross level and rail surface are a function of the characteristics of the ballast and roadbed rather than of the tie arrangement. There is no evidence that the long ties are more effective in prevention of center binding, because the shortest ties so far show no evidence of center binding. It seems probable that the cross section and spacing of the ties will be determined by the bending strength required to avoid tie breakage at the center of the track or under the rail. Further service use will indicate whether the increased tie plate load with the wider tie spacing used in some test sections will result in an increased amount of tie plate cutting into the ties.

• Corporate Authors:

  Association of American Railroads

  3140 South Federal Street
  Chicago, IL  United States  60605
• Authors:
  • Somogy, C
  • MAGEE, G M
• Publication Date: 1971-12

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; Photos; Tables;
• Pagination: 123 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Ballast (Railroads); Bending; Bending stress; Cross sections; Defects; Field tests; Mathematical models; Railroad ties; Railroad tracks; Simulation; Spacing; Stresses; Structural design; Technology; Wood ties
• Uncontrolled Terms: Ballast; Track geometry
• Geographic Terms: United States
• Old TRIS Terms: Cross level; Cross tie design; Cross tie spacing; Mathematical studies; Track irregularities; Wooden cross ties
• Subject Areas: Design; Geotechnology; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00040041
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: #R-111 Res Rpt
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 22 1976 12:00AM