Track geometry degradation and maintenance modelling: A review

Abstract

Increased demand for railway transportation is creating a need for higher train speeds and axle loads. These, in turn, increase the likelihood of track degradation and failures. Modelling the degradation behaviour of track geometry and development of applicable and effective maintenance strategies has become a challenging concern for railway infrastructure managers. During the last three decades, a number of track geometry degradation and maintenance modelling approaches have been developed to predict and improve the railway track geometry condition. In this paper, existing track geometry measures are identified and discussed. Available models for track geometry degradation are reviewed and classified. Tamping recovery models are also reviewed and discussed to identify the issues and challenges of different available methodologies and models. Existing track geometry maintenance models are reviewed and critical observations on each contribution are provided. The most important track maintenance scheduling models are identified and discussed. Finally, the paper provides directions for further research.

Effects of railway track design on the expected degradation: Parametric study on energy dissipation

“…They indicated that there is a significant difference between the results predicted by different previously-developed empirical models. Soleimanmeigouni et al [11] reviewed and classified available models for track geometry degradation. Empirical models may help engineers to make a rough maintenance forecast of railway tracks; however, these models do not have a theoretical basis nor provide any fundamental insight.…”

“…12and (13) satisfy the periodicity conditions introduced in Eqs. 10and (11). One can now take the Fourier transform of the both sides of Eqs.…”

The investigation of avalanche patterns on railroad tracks with steep slopes

“…Due to its operation, railroads that are used as roads for trains will experience quality degradation in some of their components [5] [6] including in railroad structures such as fractures in rail weld joints, damage to rail fasteners, wear on rails and cracks in concrete bearings. The dominant incidence of train accidents in Indonesia is the collapse of the carriages caused by the spread of cracks in rail fractures, cracks in concrete pads, loose fastening of rails, failure of railroad structures, land subsidence, and human error.…”

Rail Degradation Prediction Models for Tram System: Melbourne Case Study

“…It is notable that, in railway infrastructure, the rate of degradation is not quick. However, this process can lead to system failure with great human casualties and significant financial loss if necessary maintenance actions are not considered [6,7]. To keep the tram services reliable and comfortable, implementing efficient maintenance strategies is necessary [8].…”

“…Tram stops are mostly not grade-separated and most of modern vehicles are low-floor. Consequently, boarding and alighting is easier and faster for passenger with disabilities and older people [5,6].…”