Railway Track Geometry Defects and Deterioration, a Literature Review

Chebaran Jonex, Sibomana Aime Aliphones, Zewdie Moges

track geometry, geometry defects, deterioration, track quality, tamping, stoneblowing.

The assessment of track geometry defects is an important requirement for safe rail operation. Track geometry defects represents safety risk for the railway traffic and leads to a reduction of passenger ride comfort whereas a good track geometry quality provides good ride comfort for passengers and prevents the track from wearing too quickly. Hence the recognition of defects leading to essential vehicle responses is of crucial interest in track geometry assessment. The defects in track geometry are mostly used to characterize the quality of the track and to plan track maintenance. There have been many railway engineering related topics addressed through various studies in attempt to monitor and identify, measure and quantify, and propose appropriate remedial actions to track geometry defects. However, there has been inadequate study on the direct interactions concerning the degree of geometry defects and track deterioration together with corresponding maintenance activities. This paper conducts an examination and presents analysis of selected available research about railway track geometry defects, track deterioration and maintenance operations through embracing a systematic literature review (SLR) as the leading methodology. We start by giving a brief about track geometry, categorizing the track geometry parameters and track quality indicators, highlighting the effects of good track geometry and maintenance activities on the railway track performance. Track geometry defects are identified through critical examinations. The paper then investigates the cause-and-effect phenomena of track geometry defects and general track structural deterioration and an assessment of their remedial actions so as to minimize track deterioration and improve track serviceability.

https://dx.doi.org/10.31873/IJEAS.9.12.01