Analysis on the track quality evolution law of polyurethane-reinforced ballasted track in high-speed railway

Abstract

Polyurethane-reinforced ballasted track (PRBT) can improve the integrity of ballasted track structures and satisfy the high-stability requirements of high-speed railways. In this study, the quality evolution law of PRBT structures after being launched into train service was analyzed, and a reference for structural optimization and maintenance operation was provided. The track geometric state of the PRBT test section of a high-speed railway was measured and monitored for nearly one year after it was launched into operation, and the ballastless track of the adjacent section was selected as a reference. The geometric states of the tracks were evaluated and compared using various parameters, including sliding standard deviation, average standard deviation, and track irregularity spectrum density. Results show that the track quality indexes of the test section, which were in operation for nearly one year, were slightly over the limit. Moreover, the fastener can be finely adjusted for the high-value index sections to further improve the ride comfort. The application effect of PRBT in the subgrade fracture zone was good, which could satisfy the requirements of high-quality transportation as well as the normal operation and maintenance of high-speed railway.