Use of dynamic ballast testing equipment for analysis of rail aggregate breakdown

Abstract

The granulometric range used has a direct influence on the life of the ballast layer when subjected to the load generated by rail traffic. However, in Brazil, we have only two size ranges to be used. The publications related to the subject matter under study express the need for a continuous grain size strip, different from the ones usually used in our railways. This more continuous band would provide less deformation and a reduction of degradation, granting a longer ballast life. To verify the influence of granulometry, a Dynamic Ballast Test Equipment was used to simulate railway traffic. The results show that if we use a more uniform granulometry, a direct influence on the deformation and the breakage index is evidenced, and consequently, a shorter useful life. The study highlights the need to study continuous granulometric bands for the rail ballast.

Keywords:
railway ballast; dynamic ballast equipment; uniform granulometry