Heavy Haul Operation: Issues and Remedies

Abstract

The paper investigates the causes of high-rate rail/weld failure on a heavy haul track using real life rail weld fracture data. The results show that despite the significant progress in rail manufacturing, and rail welding technology, the failure rate has not dropped significantly. Thus, it is postulated with an analysis that the failure rate may be linked with the current high value of allowable bending fatigue stress and current track maintenance standard; the analysis gives insights on the requirement of construction and maintenance of a heavy haul track to a high standard. The analysis would also be helpful to establish heavy haul track maintenance and operation strategy with rail wear and deteriorating track stiffness. The paper sheds light on some causes of rail/weld failure and suggests remedial measures. Finally, further research is suggested toward a new rail section/s for heavy haul operation.