00474273

Component

http://onlinepubs.trb.org...trr/1986/1071/1071-010.pdf

https://scholar.google.co...nton&publication_year=1986

To meet the increased demands imposed on switch and crossing installations by higher train speeds and higher axle loads, British Rail has a continuing program of development work. This program's purposes are to (a) provide junctions for higher speeds and (b) reduce track maintenance costs by improving track layout geometry and component design as well as materials and the support structure. Recent work in these areas includes design of high-speed junctions suitable for speeds up to 125 mph (200 km/hr), and studies of the paths of wheels through junctions, with particular emphasis on entry into switches. Computer simulations have been developed to predict wheel/rail forces. Measurements of actual forces by means of load-measuring wheelsets have confirmed predictions. Theoretical vertical wheel trajectories through a variety of crossings have been considered in detail, leading to proposals for changes in local railhead geometry to reduce impact forces. (Large vertical impact forces measured at crossings are illustrated.) Improved steels have been developed for use in crossings that can be welded into track, thereby eliminating troublesome bolted joints. Better support for switch and crossing work (in the form of prestressed concrete bearers) is being evaluated.

Publication of this paper sponsored by Committee on Railroad Track Structure System Design. Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved

01418783

pp 48-56

1986

Transportation Research Record

0309040655

Print

Figures (19) ; Photos (2) ; References (3) ; Tables (1)

Design; Geometry; High speed rail; Intersections; Layout; Maintenance management; Railroad rails; Railroad tracks; Railroad turnouts; Rolling contact; Simulation; Technology; Wheels

Maintenance costs; Switches

United Kingdom

Design; Highways; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment

TRIS, TRB

Oct 31 1988 12:00AM

• AN ASSESSMENT OF DESIGN CRITERIA FOR CONTINUOUS-WELDED RAIL ON ELEVATED TRANSIT STRUCTURES
• BASIC FRENCH TECHNOLOGY FOR CROSSINGS, SWITCHES, AND SPECIAL TRACKWORK
• CONTINUOUS-WELDED RAIL ON BART AERIAL STRUCTURES
• EVOLUTION OF THE RAIL-BOUND MANGANESE FROG
• IN-TRACK PERFORMANCE OF GEOTEXTILES AT CALDWELL, TEXAS
• INSTALLATION FACTORS THAT AFFECT PERFORMANCE OF RAILROAD GEOTEXTILES
• MANGANESE STEEL CASTINGS: NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR WELDING FROGS TO RAIL
• MANUFACTURING, RECLAMATION AND EXPLOSIVE DEPTH HARDENING OF RAIL-BOUND AND SELF-GUARDED MANGANESE FROGS ON THE CHESSIE SYSTEM
• PROCUREMENT AND SELECTION OF DIRECT FIXATION FASTENERS FOR TRANSIT PROJECTS
• RAIL CORRUGATION--EXPERIENCE OF U.S. TRANSIT PROPERTIES
• SEGMENTAL AERIAL STRUCTURES FOR ATLANTA'S RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM
• THE REDUCTION OF WHEEL/RAIL CURVING FORCES ON U.S. TRANSIT PROPERTIES