Ballast Condition Assessment
Synopsis
Poor ballast condition accelerates track system degradation, posing an increased risk to the safety of network users.
Areas where track geometry had deteriorated had previously been identified on our client's tram network. Our client needed to know what action to take, so commissioned Tata Steel to undertake an assessment of the ballast condition in these areas and to recommend any actions necessary to rectify the situation.
Key Client Issues
- To establish the cause of the deterioration in track geometry. It was suspected that ballast performance may have been adversely affected by the prevailing ground conditions and rising clay infiltrating the ballast.
- To find out what steps should be taken to improve track geometry.
Solutions
Tata Steel undertook an in-situ investigation of the ballast in the areas identified for assessment to determine the ballast condition. This type of condition survey requires the use of specialist equipment to obtain material samples for assessment, in this instance from the four foot between sleepers. Sample analysis confirmed the ground conditions and established the condition of the ballast. .
The key outputs of the survey included:
- Data showing depth of ballast and formation conditions.
- A visual representation identifying and prioritising areas for ballast renewal and maintenance.
Specifically, Tata Steel gave recommendations for a ballast remediation programme, to improve drainage and prevent future clay ingress into the ballast.
Client Benefits
Our report enabled the client to:
- Have a snapshot of the current ballast condition.
- Implement a planned renewal and maintenance programme.
- Improve track geometry.
