Traffic Load and Its Impact on Track Maintenance

Abstract

Transport volume is often addressed as gross-tonnage when it comes to track degradation, maintenance needs and maintenance costs. Tonnage and thus weight are insufficient to address track loading: The vehicle properties, mainly axle load, unsprung masses and bogie stiffness, as well as train speed have a major impact on track maintenance demand. This chapter gives an overview on vehicle-specific track deterioration models and describes the maintenance needs of different track as well as the influence on track maintenance cost of different vehicles and trains. The approach proposed is both simple enough to be used and sufficiently detailed to address the main technical aspects. The differences of track maintenance necessary for mixed traffic lines, high-speed lines and heavy haul freight lines can be derived from the vehicles used and the existing train speeds. In passenger transport, the difference between push-pull loco hauled trains (with wagons) and multiple units are a major aspect.