Dynamic tests of ballasted track on bridges
Track section in shaking box
The test rig is used to study the dynamic behaviour of railways. A variety of dynamic impacts can be simulated in this flexibly adjustable system: railway accelerations of 1 g and above in a frequency range of up to 50 Hz can be achieved, depending on other test parameters.
Different railway structures which vary in particular in their bedding - ballast or new road bed types - can be investigated by means of full-scale tests. For instance, this system has been used to test the fatigue behaviour of two rail systems with elastic beds (the so-called 'whisper rails'). Another series of experiments has looked into the structure of ballast beds on bridges, the aim being to clarify whether appropriate construction measures can reduce the considerable vibration generated in ballast beds.
Load types
| Static | Ramp |
|---|---|
| Dynamic | Ramp, rectangle and sine up to 50 Hz |
| Sweep | Frequency response 0 to 50 Hz |
Test force
| Static | ± 400 kN |
|---|---|
| Dynamic | ± 250 kN |
Frequency max. 50 Hz (system- and amplitude-dependant)
Sample size (max.) lenght 6.0 m; widht 2,5 m; height 1.5 m
Division 7.2 Buildings and Structures | Testing facilities of the Division | BAM Equipment and facilities
