SLAB TRACK FOR THE NEXT 100 YEARS

Various types of concrete slab track are in service North America, Europe and Japan. In Japan, recent slab track construction costs are 30% to 50% higher than for standard ballasted track. However, in Japan the maintenance costs for slab track are one-fourth of those for ballasted track. This paper will describe the current types of slab track in use and in research and development in North America, Europe, and Japan. Performance of existing installation of slab track is discussed when data is available. Much of the research and development presented in currently being performed in Japan and Europe where slab track is important for the support of high speed trains on heavily traveled lines. The paper also presents design recommendations for addressing soil investigation, concrete slab, direct fixation fasteners and noise. Construction methods, tolerances and life cycle costs are also presented. And finally, the paper presents the benefits from slab track including increased durability, much-improved vertical and horizontal alignment stability, improved ride quality, and reduced track maintenance and associated downtime. Recommendations for future efforts to expand the use of slab track in North America are discussed.