Impact of speed and axle load on the static and dynamic mechanical behavior of the ballast bed laying under sleeper pads

Abstract

With the evolution of railway infrastructure towards accommodating higher speeds and heavier loads, the under sleeper pad (USP) has emerged as a critical component in mitigating the deterioration of the ballast bed and reducing maintenance requirements. This study aims to enhance the understanding of the suitability of the USP for railway lines and to investigate the static and dynamic mechanical behaviors of the ballast bed (with USP) under the train load. To achieve this, the study conducts on-site tests and employs the discrete element method-multi-flexible body dynamics (DEM-MFBD) coupling analysis to develop a three-dimensional high-fidelity model of the ballast bed (with USP). This comprehensive analysis assesses the impact of varying train speeds and axle loads on the mechanical properties of the ballast bed with the USP, integrating both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives. The results show that there is an 8.54% reduction in longitudinal resistance of the ballast bed (with USP) compared to the ballast bed (without USP), yet it still fulfils the requirements of heavy railway lines. The ballast bed (with USP) exhibits significant improvements in vibration-damping performance, with the wheel-rail vertical force showing a reduction of 8.71% relative to the ballast bed (without USP). This suggests a potential extension of the track structure's lifespan. An increase in train speed markedly influences the vibration levels of the ballast bed (with USP), leading to an increase in ballast bed acceleration by 119.39%. The increase in train axle load demonstrates a minor effect on the plastic deformation of the ballast bed, indicating the ballast bed (with USP)'s capability to accommodate heavier axle load trains.