Background:
The stability of
track, as influenced by changes in rail temperature, is a
significant safety risk and business risk to Australian railways.
Hence, an accurate prediction and/or correct measurement of rail
surface temperature based on meteorological conditions are
essential for track stability analysis and safety management.
Objective:
This study aims to
develop a thermodynamic model for predicting rail surface
temperature and correct stability analysis.
Project scope:
The project
will focus on three areas as follows:
- Mathematical modelling to predict incident radiation
- Prediction modelling for rail temperature
- Managing risks and speed restriction settings
Benefits
Key benefits of
the work are:
- Increased knowledge and mathematical modelling to aid in
management of rail stability.
- Improved methodology for speed restriction setting when
required to reduce track buckling risk.
The rail
authorities with large track networks such as QR and ARTC will
benefit from the outcomes of the project. The project will also
benefit railway customers with less speed restrictions required for
track stability management - improving transit times.
Expected
outcomes:
Followings are the
expected outcomes of the project:
- Comparisons of current standards used by rail authorities for
track stability analysis and identifications of gap in existing
codes and practices,
- Cause-effect analysis of track buckling,
- Prediction and modelling of rail temperature from incident
solar radiation and others,
- Finalisation of scopes and objectives of stage #2.
Project
timeframe:
24 Months
Project
Chair:
Mr John Powell,
QR
Project
Leader:
Nirmal
Mandal, Central Queensland University
Tel: (07)
4923 2064
Email:
n.mandal@cqu.edu.au
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