Understanding track loading requirements to achieve better track design

This paper reviews current track loading requirements for ballasted and ballastless track. Typical vehicle-track interaction loads are described along with their influential factors. Limits and influential factors are analysed against statistical evidence from vehicle dynamics measurements. Additional load combinations are presented as potentially relevant for track design. Discussion focuses on the potential reduction of load from improved vehicle performance and slab track improved geometry, areas which might bear some benefits in terms of cost reduction for future slab track designs. This paper demonstrates that both vehicle measurement and simulations can provide an important source of information in terms of expected track loading and their limit values to help achieve cost reduction in track design.