Abstract
This paper describes the development of European standard EN13481-8, which sets out the performance requirements for rail fastenings which are to be used on tracks carrying trains with heavy axle loads i.e. axle loads greater than 260kN. The standard takes particular account of proposals to run such trains on track aligned for faster lighter trains. The critical loading case arises when heavy freight trains travel at low speeds on curves for which the super-elevation and rail pad resilience have been selected to suit fast passenger trains.