The goal of this project is to establish design criteria of a
sub-ballast layer under cyclic loading in wet conditions to ensure
successful load distribution, stability and filtration mechanisms
to minimise upward migration of fines, hence a reduction in ballast
fouling. Traditionally in Australia, a capping material has been
used over the formation in all situations. Repeated formation and
ballast failure in wet conditions suggests that currently used
capping material is not appropriate in wet conditions. It is
believed that improved sub-ballast design criteria for wet
conditions could save a significant proportion of costs associated
with annual ballast replacement, track reconditioning and tamping
works.
The project commenced in May 2006, with no specific outcomes to
date.
Future Outcomes:
- Development of new guidelines for the selection of sub-ballast
material that satisfies both filtration and stability criteria
under cyclic train loading.
- Establishment of load-deformation behaviour of sub-ballast layer
under cyclic loading.
- Adoption of the guidelines by the industry participants.
Project Leader: Dr Asadul Haque (Monash University)
Project Manager: Mr David Christie (RailCorp)
