Modelling of slab track systems for design purposes

Slab track is a recent technology used to cope up with the train high axle loads and speed, it has replaced the ballast material in classical ballasted track with either reinforced concrete slab or asphalt layer in order to increase both stability and durability of the railway lines. This paper aims to propose a new slab track design model which can be used to design/analyze any slab track systems under vertical loads using AREMA and EN specifications for high-speed systems (300 kmph). This model has been validated through experimental work held in Heriot-Watt University then applied to the most common slab track systems (BÖGL, Shinkansen, and RHEDA 2000) in the world. The standard section of RHEDA 2000 slab track has shown the best structural performance and efficiency compared with BÖGL and Shinkansen standard sections regarding the rail deflection, stresses of rails, and stress of replacement soil layer and subgrade soil. This paper has concluded the rail deflection is the most critical factor for the slab track design regarding EN specifications while the subgrade stresses is the vital criterion concerning AREMA specifications. Furthermore, EN-Specifications are found to be more conservative than AREMA specifications for the design or analysis of all the slab track types.