Track-bridge interaction – preliminary experimental results about the behavior of ballasted track on bridges
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The “TraBI” (Track-Bridge-Interaction) research project aims to develop a future-proof and universal verification method for track-bridge interaction across various track construction types. Current validation methods defined in Ril 804.3401 and DIN EN 1991-2 are limited to standard track configurations and do not account for frequently occurring deviations in railway infrastructure. To close this gap, the German Centre for Rail Traffic Research (DZSF) initiated TraBI to investigate longitudinal force transmission in additional track scenarios and curve radii. Running from February 2025 to January 2028, the project combines theoretical and experimental studies, including in-situ tests on a representative railway bridge in Elsterwerda, Germany. Extensive monitoring is being conducted to investigate the behaviour of the ballasted track under different loading conditions, while laboratory experiments evaluate critical track resistance parameters. The results will support the development of an enhanced computational model for track-bridge interaction covering a broader range of track configurations. A key objective is the preparation of a practical guideline for modelling, calculation, and load case superposition, providing the basis for future extensions of current railway standards.
Source: Procedia Structural Integrity
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7214712792