Mechanistic design of concrete crossties and fastening systems - Phase 1.

PDFTech ReportNURail2014-UIUC-R11Mechanistic designConcrete tiesFasteningsFastenersUnited StatesNational University Rail Center (U.S.)Edwards, J. RileyDersch, Marcus S.National University Rail Center (U.S.)US Transportation CollectionThe objective of this project is the development and deployment of resilient concrete crossties and fastening systems for heavy haul freight, intercity passenger, and rail transit applications.For a variety of reasons, concrete crossties are a dominant material choice for heavy haul freight, intercity passenger, and rail transit operators at demanding territories. The methods of designing concrete crossties and fastening systems for the aforementioned railroad systems are not developed based on mechanistic design practices considering actual field loadings and service demands, and they are largely based on empirical results and practical experience. The need for mechanistic design practices and resilient component designs is recognized by the manufactures of the crossties, fastening systems, and operators (end users). Additionally, deficiencies in concrete crosstie performance have been noted in the US that include: premature deterioration of concrete due to chemical attack, premature deterioration of the rail pad, and some structural failures. This project maps directly to the US DOT strategic goal of \u201cState of Good Repair\u201d. Focus on the goal of \u201cstate of good repair\u201d will result in concrete crossties and fastening systems with increased robustness, adaptiveness, and improved service