Influences of Track Structure, Geometry and Traffic Parameters on Railway Deterioration

The roles of the several parameters that influences railway track deterioration most, are examined in this research with a view to make railway track maintenance more effective and cost efficient. The results presented are based on a comprehensive study of railway track degradation on super structure, sub-structure and geometrical aspects. The changes in TQI (Track Quality Index), the track settlement and the average growth of track's irregularity are considered to be the main track deterioration criteria from the aspects of track geometry,on the tracks sub-structure and super structure, respectively. In this research the sensitivity of the closely related parameters between, ballast conditions, subgrade compaction, rail-pad stiffness, rail types, sleeper spacing, initial track quality, tonnage, train speed, axle loads, and load cycles are studied. It is shown how one can control the rate of track deterioration by the verification and modification of the track structure, geometry and traffic parameters.