Mathematical modelling of railway track fasteners subject to dynamic loading

The complex mechanism of load transfer from the rolling stock to the ground could occur at a wide range of frequencies and could have various resonance effects depending on the fundamental track and rolling stock parameters. Extensive work in understanding the dynamic behaviour of above-the-track components, modelling and experimentation on the dynamic behaviour of the rail track as a whole and with respect to sleeper loading, and some studies on rail-pad-sleeper interactions as well as geo-mechanics aspect of the rail track have been reported. However, the effects of track fastening systems were not studied in detail. Such a study would define the characteristics of an optimum fastening system for a given track condition. This is an area of considerable interest to researchers as well as track designers. A classical mathematical model representing mechanical characteristics of Rail, Sleeper, Ballast and Fasteners has been developed. The Model was able to predict the behaviour of rail, track and sleepers, in agreement with other mathematical models reported in literature. In addition the model provided specific information with respect to the optimum fastening system suitable for a given track condition.