Automation of Rail Neutral Temperature Readjustment Methodology for Improved CWR Performance

Software to enhance maintenance practices for continuous welded rail (CWR) regarding rail neutral temperature promises to improve the accuracy of rail replacement efforts. Rail neutral temperature is the temperature of the rail at which there is zero thermal force in the rail. Temperatures above neutral produce compression due to rail expansion, and those below it produce tension. Although there are established designated rail laying temperatures to control the rail neutral temperature of CWR as it is installed, over time that can change due to settling, lateral movement, and the like. Rail added during cold weather is of special concern because of tensile forces that are released when rail breaks or is cut at temperatures below the rail neutral mark. A readjustment methodology has been developed and incorporated into a software program, which automates the calculations. An example is given, along with figures illustrating the software interface. The next step is to address user interface and implementation issues to a greater degree and package the software into a program that can run on handheld devices.

  • Availability:
  • Authors:
    • Read, David
    • Kish, Andrew
  • Publication Date: 2008-5

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Print
  • Features: Figures; References;
  • Pagination: pp 19-21
  • Serial:

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01105489
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
  • Files: BTRIS, TRIS
  • Created Date: Jul 31 2008 3:24PM