Mechanical characterization of railway structures based on vertical stiffness analysis and railway substructure stress state

Abstract

This paper uses the finite element method to analyse the mechanical behaviour of different track types by considering the different conditions to which they may be subjected: superstructure, height, embankment and foundation quality. The values of the stress and deformation as a function of depth are obtained at each point of the cross-section of the considered track. These values allow quantification of the basic design parameters for railway structures: track stiffness and stress supported by the railway platform. Optimal combinations of superstructure, height, embankment and foundation materials are presented for various specific operation conditions. The presented information can be used to improve the design of railway structures.