STRESSES IN THE TRACK SUBSTRUCTURE RESULTING FROM TRAFFIC LOADS

Experimental research has led to findings concerning the interactions between the different structural components of the track under quasi-static loading conditions. The tests were intended to show whether the results found for the quasi-static range can also be regarded as valid under dynamic conditions. Results showed that there is a linear correlation between the measured sleeper reaction and the pressure or stress in the ballast and formation. The results showed a relatively high degree of scatter, amounting to 17.5% for a concrete sleepered track without rail joints, and to 25% for a track on wooden sleepers with rail joints. The maximum vertical stress in the formation decreased in the course of time due to changes in the stress distribution. For certain soils, there is a definite limiting stress. If this stress is exceeded, repeated load applications will lead to a rapidly increasing deformation and to plastic setting. Below this (limiting stress), repeated load applications will merely cause permanent deformations.

• Corporate Authors:

  International Railway Congress Association

  17-21 rue de Louvrain
  1000 Brussels,   Belgium 
• Publication Date: 1971-5

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos;
• Pagination: p. 494-498
• Serial:
  • RAIL INTERNATIONAL

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Ballast (Railroads); Concrete; Concrete ties; Deformation curve; Loads; Rail joints; Railroad ties; Railroad tracks; Soil mechanics; Stresses; Technology; Wood ties
• Uncontrolled Terms: Ballast; Vertical loads
• Geographic Terms: Germany
• Old TRIS Terms: Track stress; Wooden cross ties
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00039465
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 15 1976 12:00AM