Impact response analysis of railway track structure using vehicle-track interaction modelling

Impact forces and stress levels on track structure due to various wheel and short wavelength rail defects are investigated using a three-dimensional vehicle-track system dynamics model. The major parameters that contribute to the development of the high frequency responses of the track structure are the characteristics of the running surfaces and the wagon and track components. The impact thus generated is found to significantly increase the stresses in track components beyond yield/permissible levels. The method presented in this paper for the track impact analysis will enhance the understanding of the track dynamic behaviour for improved design and maintenance.