Failure analysis for railroad embankment under heavy haul wagon loads
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5755/j01.mech.23.2.13911Keywords:
embankment, finite element, dynamic response, failure, repeated loadAbstract
In this paper, a dynamic three-dimensional finite element model using linear elastic material properties while including wheel-rail friction was developed and used to investigate embankment deviator stress. The effect of train speeds, axle load, and rail roughness on failure of embankment was investigated during repeated train passage. Results indicate that axle load and rail roughness have important effect on foundation failure. Embankment failure occurs first in engineering filler layer instead of gravel layer, and there is a rapidly decrease in foundation life which was determined by fill layer failure as annual tonnage is increased. As annual tonnage is increased beyond 400Mt, the foundation life cannot meet a projected design life of 40 years.
