Optimisation of 1067 mm gauge railway track under static and dynamic loading

This research study has concentrated on the invest~gation -of 1067 mm gauge railway track in order to provide optimum track standards. In addition an improved understanding has been obtained of the quasi-static and dynamic force levels exerted on the track structure and the indi victual track elements. The performance of resilient rail pads in attenuating dynamic stresses in concrete sleepers and the rail has been quantified. Rail head wear limits have been recommended for 1067 mm gauge track for a range of axle loads and train speeds. Significant potential savings of over $Al. 5 million per annum have been identified for the Queensland Railways with the adoption of these limits. In conjunction with these derived rail wear limits specific rail wear relationships have been determined, which allow more effective economic assessment of rail selection and in service life prediction. The track buckling stability of a range of 1067 mm gauge track structures have been quantified ahd recommendations made for rail length versus track curvature