Development of a new design methodology for slab track systems

Abstract Owing to the rapid increase in the demands of train speed and axle loads, the slab track has been introduced to replace the ballast in the classical ballasted track with reinforced concrete slab or asphalt-bearing layer to improve the track stability, strength, and durability. This paper aims to develop a new methodology for estimating the rail deformations for the most common slab track systems (BÖGL, Shinkansen, and RHEDA 2000. This methodology yielded the first design aid for slab track systems based on design equations and graphs for high-speed systems. Using a regression analysis of more than 300 finite element models which are validated by experimental tests, the relationship between the rail deflection, modulus of elasticity for subgrade and replacement, and the replacement thickness was determined for the most common slab tracks under the American (AREMA) and European (EN) loads. According to EN, it was found that the minimum modulus of elasticity for subgrade to fulfill the rail deflection criterion without a replacement soil ranges from 128 to 143 MPa for the most common slab track systems; meanwhile, for AREMA, it ranges from 59 to 70 MPa. Furthermore, for these slab track systems, one simple design chart was introduced to aid engineers with the design of the slab track replacement layer according to each design code.