HISTORY AND FUTURE OUTLOOK OF TRACK MAINTENANCE OF SHINKANSEN

With the aim of studying track structures and track management methodology, tests were started in 1962 on an experimental track, using vehicles running at 210 km/h, a speed which had never been reached before. Even after the opening of the line, particular efforts have constantly been made with regard to maintenance, so as to keep the lines up to the highest standards required. When laying the extension of the line to Hakata, the use of concrete slab track instead of ballast has enabled JNR to make considerable savings in maintenance costs.