Effectiveness of measuring stress-free temperature in continuously welded rails by Rail Creep Method and Rail Stress Modules

Continuously welded rail track has two critical parameters that affect track stability, namely longitudinal rail stress and lateral resistance of the track structure. Maintaining the stress free temperature of rail plays an important role in managing of rail stress focussing on lateral track stability. Railway companies are focusing on finding an effective means of minimising longitudinal rail forces through management of Stress Free Temperature. In this study, the effectiveness of commercially available rail stress monitors and the rail creep measurement methods to monitor rail stress in railway systems has been investigated. A field investigation of a section of track at Edungalba in Aurizon's heavy haul coal network has enabled observation of Stress Free Temperature through several testing methods. The investigation and analysis has led to insights into track behaviour and stress state. The study concluded that the conventional rail creep method is useful for general indications of track stress condition and follows a similar trend to rail stress monitor data. It was also concluded that accurate measurement of Stress Free Temperature throughout the entire network through installation of rail stress monitor modules may not be a cost-effective solution for the management of rail stress. However, the modules demonstrated an effectiveness to monitor and manage rail stress in targeted problem areas. © 2019 Elsevier Ltd