Measurement of Track Deflection and Associated Track Performance Effects

Vertical track deflection has been used as an indicator of track deterioration and quality for generations. While track roughness as indicated by track geometry indicates whether the track is adequately smooth to convey passing traffic safely and comfortably, track deflection can indicate whether the track is structurally suitable to accommodate traffic with an acceptable rate of deterioration. Various researchers have studied means to measure track deflection, however it is becoming increasingly clear that the entire load-deflection behavior from zero load to working load is required to define the non-linearity associated with some problematic track behavior and rapid deterioration. Several risks to safe train operations have been linked to track vertical load deflection behavior and are reviewed. The safety risks, associated maintenance options, and emerging measurement systems to quantify the track performance associated with these risks are discussed and correlated. While several techniques exist for system wide measurement of track deflection, several emerging technologies might be used to identify site specific risks. Application of detailed measurements in zones of high deflection identified by a cost-effective and reliable track deflection measurement system might help to quantify risks associated with subsurface deterioration that is otherwise impossible to diagnose accurately based only on surface manifestations.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • This paper was sponsored by TRB committee AR060 Standing Committee on Railway Maintenance.
• Authors:
  • Sussmann, Theodore R
  • Carr, Gary
  • Zhang, Yu-Jiang
  • Thompson II, Hugh B
• Conference:
  • Transportation Research Board 97th Annual Meeting
  • Location: Washington DC, United States
  • Date: 2018-1-7 to 2018-1-11
• Date: 2018

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 20p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Accelerometers; Ballast (Railroads); Deflection; Maintenance of way; Marine fouling; Measurement; Modulus of deformation; Railroad ties; Railroad tracks; Settlement (Structures); Video cameras
• Subject Areas: Maintenance and Preservation; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01662548
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: 18-03051
• Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
• Created Date: Mar 12 2018 3:02PM