Abstract
Railway track transition zones are characterised by an abrupt change in track support stiffness, which increases dynamic wheel loads and leads to the acceleration of differential settlement and track degradation. This work aims to study concrete slab track transition zones, with a focus on embankment-to-tunnel sections. The analysis uses a hybrid methodology, combining 3D finite element modelling with empirical settlement equations, in an iterative manner. At each iteration, the track-ground stress fields are calculated using a 3D model, before passing them to a calibrated empirical equation capable of computing settlement across the transition. Then, before starting the next iteration, these settlements are used to modify the 3D model geometry, thus account for the effects of the previous settlement. Regarding the short-term dynamic behaviour, the results demonstrate a concentration of stresses in the concrete slab and HBL. Regarding the long -term behaviour, the results show a maximum cumulative permanent deformation close to 0.52 mm. Moreover, the effectiveness of a resilient mat placed in the transition was tested. The results show a decrease in the stress levels in the transition and the attenuation of the variation of displacements in the concrete slab.
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