Use of wheel load detector data to predict risk of track damage

Report, 2026

The current report investigates how wheel load detectors can be used to identify
damaged wheels that may cause excessive track damage. In this context, relevant
forms of wheel and track damage are presented. Current detector use including limitations
and potential enhancements are discussed. Procedures to detect and classify
damaged wheels using a stepwise enhancement of the current detector network are
outlined, and an example of using detector data to predict rail crack growth and
fracture is presented. Possibilities and challenges for operational implementation
are outlined.