Relating the influence of track properties to axle load spectra through onboard measurements

Abstract

This work aims at investigating how variations in measured stresses are affected by track conditions and, if possible, extract information on track conditions from onboard measurements. Axle bending strains measured in extensive field tests are employed to evaluate axle stress spectra. Correlation between stress spectra and parameters describing track design and condition for three sections of the Swedish mainline “Västra stambanan” have been investigated. The study shows how switches and other discontinuities in the track running surface increase the scatter of the stress spectra and increase the number of overloads. Circular and transition curves mainly increase stress amplitudes with magnitudes close to quasistatic conditions load. A decrease in track quality leads to both a shift of stress spectra towards higher values and a higher number of overloads. The influence of bridges/tunnels and decreased track stiffness were found to be difficult to distinguish from effects of curves, switches and crossings and track quality. If effects exist, they are likely to be small. Results from the study aids future track condition monitoring, maintenance planning of track and running gear, and the estimation of stress spectra for track stretches with known characteristics.