Prediction of Differential Track Settlement in Transition Zones Using a Non-Linear Track Model

Paper in proceeding, 2022

An iterative simulation procedure for the prediction of differential settlement of ballast/subgrade in a transition zone between two track forms is presented. The procedure is based on a time-domain model of vertical dynamic vehicle–track interaction to calculate the contact loads between sleepers and ballast in the short-term, which are then used in an empirical model to determine the settlement of ballast/subgrade below each sleeper in the long-term. The procedure is applied for a transition zone between a 3MB slab track and a ballasted track. Each sleeper in the ballasted track section is modelled by a discrete (rigid) mass. Non-linear sleeper support conditions and the possible development of hanging sleepers over time due to settlement are considered. For heavy-haul traffic, the influence of axle load and train speed on the long-term settlement at the transition is studied in a demonstration example.