Parametric Analysis and Safety Concepts of CWR Track Buckling

摘要

The report presents a comprehensive study of continuous welded rail (CWR) trackbuckling strength as influenced by the range of all key parameters such as the lateral, torsional and longitudinal resistances, vehicle loads, etc. The parametric study presented here is based on the computer program jointly developed by Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (VNTSC) and Foster-Miller. The computer program is based on the dynamic buckling theory developed and validated by previous research efforts of VNTSC. On the basis of test data, the practical range of each of the parameters involved has been identified and computer runs have been made over this range to yield the buckling strength variations and the sensitivity with respect to the parameters. Critical parameters and their ranges have been evaluated through this process. Several conclusions of practical interest are drawn from the study.