Field Tests for the Failure Evaluation of PANDROL Rail Fasteners

Abstract

This report presents an evaluation of the performance of PANDROL rail fasteners based on laboratory tests and field tests in Section 17 of the Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (FAST) at the Transportation Test Center (TTC) in Pueblo, Colorado. The test program examined the effects of track curvature and grade, tie pad composition and train direction on static and dynamic fasterner loads. The purpose of the test program was to obtain information  on PANDROL rail fastener behavior in an effort to determine the factors contributing to fasterner failures.

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