MxV Rail (formerly TTCI) has been investigating new designs and materials to improve safety and efficiency and reduce the maintenance required for open deck bridges. Due to a lack of information on the lateral resistance provided by ties and fasteners on open-deck railroad bridges, there was no quantitative data to support guidelines or requirements for deck tie fastener spacing; specifically in decks with smooth girder top flanges (no rivets) and ties without daps. At the request of and with guidance from MxV Rail, researchers at Virginia Polytechnic Institute (Virginia Tech) conducted experimental testing on five tie materials, three hook bolt styles, and multiple vertical loading conditions to determine the lateral resistance of each combination. Through testing, lateral resistance provided by tie friction, hook bolt fasteners, and tie daps was quantified. Investigators at MxV Rail then used the lateral resistance values from this recent experimental testing to evaluate current American Railway…
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