Technology Digests / FAST® High Strength Rail 2014-2018 and 2018-2022 Tests: Low Rail Analysis 

TD23-006

July 25, 2023
Authors
  • Ananyo Banerjee
  • Kenny Morrison
  • Ryan Alishio
  • Yuqing Zeng
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Key Findings

  • In two tests performed between 2014 and 2022, rails from Manufacturer C had the highest vertical wear. Rails from Manufacturer E had the least vertical wear.
  • When compared to the rail types in the 2014-2018 test, the RCF observed on rail surfaces in the 2018-2022 test was lower overall by the end of the test for rail types from the same manufacturers.
  • Wheel rail contact stress analyses indicated a high probability of stress in locations that matched the RCF severity at different tonnages.

FAST® High Strength Rail 2014-2018 and 2018-2022 Tests: Low Rail Analysis 

Over the course of eight years and through two separate tests, MxV Rail tested and evaluated the performance of premium rail types (also known as high strength or HS rails) without any direct lubrication on a 5-degree reverse curve at the Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (FAST®) in Pueblo, CO. Corrective grinding was performed as deemed necessary due to the formation of heavy rolling contact fatigue (RCF). Previous issuers of Technology Digest provided results for the high rail performance in the 2014-2018 test (Test 1) and 2018-2022 test (Test 2).1-4 In both tests, the low rail received fewer grinding passes than the high rail. The low rail grinding passes were done mainly to eliminate sporadic RCF. The RCF formation on the low rail was more pronounced in the 2014-2018 test compared to the low rail in the 2018-2022 test.   BACKGROUND  The 5-degree curve of the High Tonnage Loop (HTL) at…