RAIL WEB STRESSES IN HIGH SPEED TERRITORY

The purpose of the present test was to determine if possible the cause of frequent split web failures in the joint on 131-lb. RE rail on the Fort Wayne Division, and in 152-lb. PS rail on the New York Division. Web failures in 131-lb. and 152-lb. rail on the Fort Wayne and New York Divisions are adequately explained by the corrosion fatigue theory. The ocassional bolt hole failures in 133, 140, and 155-lb. rail are not readily explained. A 50% allowance for impact is justifiable based on measured wheel loads. Application of reformed bars changes stress distribution in the rail web and in many cases increases web stresses, accelerating rail web failure. Loose bolts and increase in rail end gaps increase rail web stress. The results of this test emphasize the need for protection of rail steel against corrosion, for maintaining standard bolt tension, a good fit between bars and rail, and good surface through joints.

• Corporate Authors:

  Penn Central Transportation Company

  Transportation Center, 6 Penn Center Plaza
  Philadelphia, PA  United States  19104
• Authors:
  • Code, C J
• Publication Date: 1960-6-13

Media Info

• Pagination: 6 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bolts; Corrosion; Defects; Deformation curve; Dynamic loads; Fastenings; Fatigue (Mechanics); Fatigue (Physiological condition); Field tests; Rail (Railroads); Technology; Tie bars; Velocity
• Geographic Terms: United States
• Old TRIS Terms: Corrosion fatigue; Web defects; Web defects (Rails)
• Subject Areas: Railroads; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00040279
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: Test No. 597 Test Rpt
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 8 1994 12:00AM