A simulation study of the deflection of the slab and at subgrade by a high-speed train

As the demand for rapid transport and higher frequency rail services around the world is increasing, greater stresses are induced on the track, thus the necessity for a sustainable and durable railway structure is essential. To meet these demands it is seen that slab track construction is generally preferred for High-Speed Railways (HSR) as opposed to the conventional ballasted track as the slab track can sustain higher dynamic loading with less maintenance. In line with this research, a study on the development and application of a 3D structural model using ABAQUS software is carried out to evaluate the dynamic behaviour of HSR slab track. This research aims at evaluating the continuously fastened Balfour Beatty Embedded Rail Track System (ERS) and comparing it with the RHEDA (RTS) slab track system, which is discreetly fastened. The modelled rail tracks consist of a rail fastened onto a slab laid on a suitable foundation. The foundation consists of a Subbase Layer (HBL) placed on a Capping Layer (FPL) overlaying the subgrade soil. This thesis looks at the findings of dynamic analysis of various parameters which are affected during the high-speed passage of trains. Constant speeds are applied to a moving load as a part of dynamic analysis. Parametric studies are performed for CBL stiffness, soil stiffness and CBL thickness. The motion speeds are also changed to see its effect on the rail track. This study will shed light on the dynamic behaviour of ETS and RTS with changing parameters.