Purpose. The study is aimed at determining experimentally the values of the parameters characterizing the dynamic effect of rolling stock on the railway track, substantiating the maximum permissible (limiting) values. Methodology. To investigate the interaction between the track and the rolling stock, the devices to record various physical processes were installed on the experimental sections. The devices were installed in 8 sections along the outer railway line. To establish the actual state of the track, field measurements were carried out in accordance with the Program and research methodology. Findings. According to the results of experimental tests of the impact on the track, it was revealed that the average vertical loads, and, accordingly, the average vertical deformations, under the cars with an axle load of up to 25 tf/axle are higher than that under the cars with an axle load of up to 23.5 tf/axle by 8 percent. The maximum vertical loads under the cars with an axle load of 25 tf/axle exceeded the average loads by 10.0 tf, and under the cars with an axle load of up to 23.5 tf/axle exceeded the average values by 12.8 tf. During the tests, no cars were found in which the vertical dynamic force exceeds 20 tf, and the horizontal force exceeds 10 tf. Therefore, the norms of permissible dynamic impact can be taken in accordance with the Regulations on Preventive Maintenance and Repair Track Work on the Railways of Ukraine. Originality. The authors conducted a study to assess the dynamic characteristics of the interaction of track and rolling stock, in particular the stresses in the edges of the rail base, vertical and horizontal forces from the wheels of rolling stock. Practical value. On the basis of the results obtained, it is possible to estimate the permissible values of the dynamic effect of the rolling stock on the railway track to substantiate the need to change the standards for the material consumption of the track superstructure and labor. In turn, this will make it possible to plan the repair and track periods more economically and according to the actual indicators of the state of the track superstructure.
