Analysis of the dynamic behaviour of ballasted track based on a large-scale test setup with vertical loading

The ballasted track exerts essential influence on the dynamic behaviour of railway bridges with small and middle spans. However, the consideration of its damping and stiffness characteristics in a dynamic calculation still entails some uncertainties. Compared to measurements, dynamic calculations lead to conservative and uneconomical results.To close this gap between calculation and measurement, researchers at TU Wien developed a unique test facility that allows specific research of the ballasted track independent of the bearing structure.This paper describes the dynamic effects observed in the testing facility, in particular its vibrations und damping behaviour.The focus is on clear identification of different damping and energy dissipation mechanisms that occur in the ballasted track. Furthermore, several mechanical models for consideration of dynamic effects of the ballasted track are introduced.