Laboratory simulation of field loading conditions and maintenance operations

Ballasted track is the most common solution worldwide over other alternatives such as concrete slabs since it provides less stiff support, produces less noise and is more economical. Despite its benefits, a large portion of the track maintenance budget is spent on ballast related problems. However, it is not yet clear which is the best management strategy for maintenance operations. For this reason a test that reflects performance in track, allowing consistent comparisons between materials and practices is needed. In this study a ballast box has been used to simulate loading conditions and maintenance by tamping and stoneblowing in a simplified and controlled manner. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how the box test can be used to replicate ballast field conditions to compare different materials and maintenance processes.