Train running safety on non-ballasted bridges

Abstract

The train running safety on non-ballasted bridges is studied based on safety indices from the vertical wheel–rail forces. A 2D train–track–bridge interaction model that allows for wheel–rail contact loss is adopted for a comprehensive parametric study on high-speed passenger trains. The relation between bridge response and vehicle response is studied for more than 200 theoretical bridges in 1–3 spans. The bridge’s influence on running safety and passenger comfort is differentiated from the influence of the track irregularities. The Eurocode bridge deck acceleration limit for non-ballasted bridges is 5 m/s2 based on the assumed derailment risk at 1 g from wheel–rail contact loss. This study shows that the running safety indices are not compromised for bridge accelerations up to 30 m/s2. Thus, accelerations at 1 g do not in itself lead to contact loss and there is potential to enhance the Eurocode safety limits for non-ballasted bridges.