Development of Railway Turnout Structural Condition Index

Abstract

An efficient track maintenance management system depends on a reliable track conditions assessment. The available track condition indices have been developed based on the geometry assessment or visual inspection of the straight tracks and curves structural conditions. The literature review indicates that there is no research on the indices development for the track turnouts and switch conditions, despite their important role in the track performance and safety. It is the critical requirement to develop switch condition index. In response to this requirement, in this study an index for the track turnout and switches structures conditions was developed for the first time. The index was developed based on the results of the filed investigation as well as statistical analyses of engineering experiences and expert judgments using the Delphi method. The applicability and reliability of the new index were evaluated by analyzing the index obtained for 23 turnouts. It was shown that the new index provides a better understanding of the track safety level and cost-effective maintenance and it optimizes repair planning for the turnout and crossing.