Track System Selection and Design for Manila LRT

This case study deals with the design of the optimal track system for the Manila light rail transit (LRT) line 1, North Extension. Manila LRT has experience with tracks on ballast (line 1) and with direct fixation track (line 2), both on elevated structures. For the extension of line 1, a suitable track system had to be selected with the lowest life cycle costing (LCC) and able to cope with the problems associated with the existing track systems which show important rail corrugation (ballasted track, line 1) and cracks in the concrete track bed (DFF’s, line 2). In this study, the existing problems on lines 1 and 2 are identified. A booted track system in a concrete track bed has been selected which avoids rapid track degradation and which copes with the noise and vibration requirements. The track system design is discussed and it is furthermore shown how this track system can be adapted to obtain a vibratory performance close the performance of a floating slab.