GREAT BRITAIN

Abstract: Track defects are deviation of actual from theoretical values of the tracks geometrical characteristics. Track defects are macroscopic and geometric in nature and are exclusively the consequence of train traffic. [5] Rail track maintenance in terms of track geometry and other modalities like rail profile, ultrasonic’s etc has been typically based on use of reactive maintenance. In case of such reactive maintenance discrete exeecedence of track geometry parameter measurements are compared against a pre-set threshold such that if they exceed the threshold then reactive maintenance is required to be done. This is particularly so in cases when current practices rely on conservative, engineering, decision. Besides it will not inform staff regarding defects in rail track which can subsequently helps in predictive maintenance. This paper focuses on variable and time based linear regression analysis of track geometry parameters which can lead to significant predictive maintenance of track geometry. The over all aim of this research paper is to propose a predictive maintenance frame work that would assist in predicting future changes in rail track geometry measurements. Such framework can evaluate and prioritise track geometry maintenance effort across network rail. It will cause alarms before the defects will actually happen. Such research will result in effective and efficient rail track maintenance management resulting in low operating cost better train transit times for rail industry [2]