The Basics Of Railroad Track Maintenance

By Jayne Rutledge


In the transport system, the trains have cemented their placed to the extent that many economies could stop in case they were to completely fail. In fact, they have provided the most viable solution to jam in large cities like New York and London. With no sign of being displaced by other transportation methods in future, the current focus is more on designing better performing vehicles in terms of speed efficiency and durability. One thing that cannot escape on the mind of engineers however the railroad track maintenance, as this is can cripple the whole system.

The railroad track maintenance is normally done through two approaches. In can either be through desirable tolerances which targets to give the most cost effective solution to whole railway or through the minimum tolerance approach that targets to achieve a safe railway. In practice, the desirable tolerance should not fall bellow minimal tolerance while the minimal tolerance on the other hand must be set to a level that trains stay safe on the tracks.

In order to achieve the comfort of passengers and crew members, minimal tolerance alone is not adequate. For this, the job normally entails determining the most desirable tolerance level that is economically viable. This depends on several factors that must be put in consideration in formulating the standards of tolerance.

The objective of safety and comfort means that the desirable tolerance level is the best approach. It achieves this by determining the tolerable level that is comfortable enough but is economically viable. In order to achieve this, many factors must be balanced.

To start with, the original design is very crucial. For instance, was it laid on CWR or jointed track? Is it straightened and curved or transitions are used? What formation materials were used? These are some of the question that must be answered in regards to the original design. The other issues to considered include but not limited to traffic mix, the traffic speed and the tonnage. These factors with be the basis of formulating the frequencies and level of inspection and maintenance.

The commonly used inspection machine is the High Speed Track Recording Coach or HSTRC. It is capable of collecting data on many aspects such as the gauge of the line, its alignment, the dynamic cross level, 5-meter twist, the 3-m twist, both top left and right above and below datum among other measurements that may be necessary. Some of the levels to be achieves are the zero variation of dynamic levels and the least possible variation in alignment from the original design.

The line should be made as smooth as possible to eliminate vibrations, and as such, allow for passengers comfort even at high speed. The economic aspect of this project is also analyzed with the aim being to achieve maximum comfort, no derailment and general perfection all at minimal possible cost.

At the end of it all, you must be sure to contract a highly efficient and effective company for all the railroad track maintenance and inspection work. The candidate should employ the modern and most up to date techniques and machines in their job in addition to having highly experienced engineers for the job. The job should not disrupt your operation and planed in a manner that it is done before total failure of the railroad.




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