Authors: U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Research and Development

Date of Publication:  1996

Sponsoring Agency:  U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Research and Development

Performing Organization:  U.S. Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Research and Development

Report No:

Abstract:

The use of continuous welded rail (CWR) tracks in the United States is increasing, bringing with it a potential increase in the number of train derailments induced by track buckling. Track buckling can cause catastrophic derailments because incipient buckles are difficult to predict and detect, and most often occur under dynamic conditions, (i.e., under the train). The Volpe Center, in line with the overall safety mission of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), conducts experimental and analytic investigations to develop preventive measures against track buckling, and ultimately to reduce the number of catastrophic buckling incidents.
 

No. of Pages:  10