Critical importance and substantial cost rests on the performance
of the track, ballast and track structure in the overall rail
system. Theme 2 is solely focused on developing technologies and
systems for track maintenance and upgrading, to ensure safer and
more reliable rail operations. Automated real-time inspection
systems with the ability to detect rail lubrication failures and
noise will improve safety and environmental outcomes, while
research into the use of recycled ballast, and the feasibility of
improving track stability through native vegetation near tracks
aims to substantially reduce maintenance costs.
Objectives:
- To improve track reliability and rail operational safety.
- To reduce track construction, maintenance and upgrading costs.
- To increase rail productivity by minimising inspection and
maintenance time.
Theme 2 Leader:
Professor Buddhima Indraratna
University of Wollongong
School of Civil, Mining and Environmental Engineering
E-mail:
indra@uow.edu.au
Phone: (02) 4221 3046
