Expert evaluation of slab track systems
Table of contents
Project data
Titel | Title Gutachterliche Bewertung der festen Fahrbahn | Expert evaluation of the slab track Förderer | Funding DB Netz AG, Region Süd-Ost Zeitraum | Period 10/2023–09/2025 Leiter | Project manager Prof. Dr.-Ing. Steffen Marx Bearbeiter | Contributor Dipl.-Ing. Franz Grützmacher |
Summary
In the context of the creation of high-speed corridors in the German rail network, slab track construction is frequently used. The construction is said to have a longer service life, lower maintenance costs and greater travel comfort. This is associated with higher costs in new construction. The development of slab track is now over 50 years old and various systems have become established. New construction has progressed strongly over the last 25 years, so that a network of over 1,400 km of ballastless track has now been built in Germany. Some of the construction types are already over 50 years old and will soon reach a final age of 60 years. The task of maintenance must be ensured over this period and an evaluation made of possible replacement construction.
The project aim is to analyze, improve, and optimize the maintenance measures for the different slab track construction systems. The challenges and requirements of the slab track will be intensively addressed and innovative solutions will be developed to ensure its longevity and performance. During the course of the project, various aspects of the slab track will be investigated. These include monitoring and inspecting its condition, evaluating its load-bearing capacity, and developing repair strategies. A major concern of the project is to explore and apply innovative technologies and methods to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of slab track maintenance. This may include the use of advanced monitoring systems, data-driven analysis techniques, and automated inspection tools.