HISTORY AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF SANYO SHINKANSEN - From 210 km/h to 300km/h from the track maintenance point of view

摘要

After the JNR Reformation, Sanyo Shinkansen has achieved a surprising increase in its maximum operational speed from 210 km/h to 300 km/h. Despite its higher speed, Sanyo Shinkansen succeeded in a tremendous improvement in its track maintenance. Number of incidents caused by the track maintenance (delay of more than 1 minute) has been reduced by 50 % , the track condition has been improved by 50 % and the track maintenance cost has been reduced by 40 %. This article introduces some of the technical developments which contributed achieving higher operational speed. Developments for cost reduction measures and improving riding comfort such as elastic sleepers, long wave track irregularity management and the computer system for optimum track alignment planning, economical σ value and the enhanced rail grinding are introduced. Some of the noise and vibration protection measures are also presented and further technical issues to pursue better performance will also be discussed.