STUDY OF NEW TRACK STRUCTURE DESIGNS

The effect of an abrupt change in the elastic foundation properties upon the motion of a high speed vehicle is investigated in detail in this study. Limiting allowable accelerations are chosen as the criteria for riding quality. The study indicates that there is a likelihood of encountering a variety of elastic soil combinations which can seriously deteriorate the riding qualities of a rail vehicle on conventional track. As remedial measures, two alternatives are considered to improve the quality of ride; one by improving the rigidity of the track structure by means of providing a track structure utilizing narrow vertical walls embedded in the subsoil, and the other by carefully compacting the foundation soil to minimize local variations. A study is also made to evaluate the relative economics of the alternatives.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • This abstract is also contained in "A Bibliography on the Design and Performance of Rail Track Structures", September 1974, RRIS #072794, which was prepared for the Urban Mass Transportation Administration.
• Corporate Authors:

  Carnegie Mellon University

  Transportation Research Institute
  Pittsburgh, PA  United States  15213
• Authors:
  • Bhatia, G S
  • ROMUALDI, J P
  • Thiers, G R
• Publication Date: 1968-3

Media Info

• Pagination: 103 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: High speed rail; Railroad tracks; Ride quality; Soil stabilization; Structural design; Subgrade (Pavements)
• Uncontrolled Terms: Subgrade stability; Track design
• Old TRIS Terms: Track structures
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Railroads;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00072838
• Record Type: Publication
• Contract Numbers: C-222-66
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 11 1976 12:00AM