The entire track structure is affected by heavy axle loads, so researchers are striving to improve components to help it stand up to heavy loadings. Heavier loads look like the answer to a railroad's prayer, enabling it to move more freight tonnage with fewer cars and fewer trains. But HAL traffic only benefits railroads if the infrastructure can stand up to it so m/w costs don't soak up all the cost savings from the operating side. That's why researchers and suppliers are working to make track elements that can stand up to the strain.
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