This paper and presentation will provide survey results of fouled ballast definitions, parameters, limits/standards, and laboratory test results to assist in the creation of a straightforward procedure to measure fouling parameters based on track performance and safety. Federal Track Safety Standards (FTSS)for ballast are set forth under §213.103 and require ballast to perform the following serviceability functions: (1) "Transmit and distribute the load of the track and railroad rolling equipment to the subgrade; (2) Restrain the track laterally, longitudinally, and vertically under dynamic loads imposed by railroad rolling equipment and thermal stresses exerted by the rail; (3) Provide adequate drainage for the track; and (4) Maintain proper track crosslevel, surface, and alinement." §213.103 does not specifically refer to the term "fouled ballast" nor is the term defined by supplemental documents to guide U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Inspectors when determining whether or not to issue a §213.103 defect/violation for a fouled ballast location. Railroads report that the absence of a federal definition of "fouled ballast" and the subjective nature of FRA's guidance are contributing to a lack of uniform enforcement of the regulation. To improve understanding of ballast performance, support a clarified fouled ballast definition and promote a more consistent application of §213.103 regulation the FRA and the Association of American Railroads (AAR) initiated a cooperative research project as part of an issued waiver from ballast requirements section of the FTSS for selected subdivisions on BNSF. This paper will present a summary of existing fouling definitions and parameters for quantifiable assessment of ballast fouling that corresponds to inadequate transmission of train loads to the subgrade, poor drainage, and/or inability to maintain proper track geometry as required under §213.103. This activity was undertaken as the first step in the cooperative FRA/AAR research effort.
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