This paper presents an analytical study to elucidate cyclic plastic deformation of railroad ballast, or "track deterioration." Simulation of full-scale track tests by regarding a ballast particle as an element of discontinuous analysis was repeated to elucidate the mechanism of track deterioration and propose a more effective tamping method for reducing maintenance costs and work force. As a result, it was revealed that tamping railroad ballast between neighboring sleepers down effectively reduced track deterioration because the movement of ballast particles into that area caused cyclic plastic deformation of railroad ballast.

Copyright (c) 2002 Railway Technical Research Institute