Assessment of the impact of the electromagnetic field of the catenary system on crack formation in reinforced concrete supports

Abstract

Destruction of reinforced concrete supports is a complex physical and chemical temporary process. The inevitability of destruction is due to the nature of the materials used and the activity of the environment. Centrifuged concrete is an extremely heterogeneous material over the thickness of the products made thereof: in centrifuged structures, several layers are formed over the wall thickness, which differ in their texture and structure. While in operation, the supports are subjected to a complex temperature impact, microorganisms and chemically active media have an impact on them. In addition to the main adverse factors, it is worth noting the effect of the electromagnetic field of the catenary suspension, the impact of which promotes the formation of transverse cracks mainly in the upper part of the support. Therefore, this phenomenon requires the study and development of reinforced concrete support diagnostics and monitoring facilities to provide continuous movement of railway transport and prevent support breakage and falling.