Parametric Studies of Train-Track-Bridge Interaction : An evaluation of the dynamic amplification due to track irregularities for freight transport

Sammanfattning: In this thesis a train-track-bridge interaction (TTBI) model is developed in order to study the dynamic amplification from track irregularities on railway bridges traversed by freight trains. These simulations are of great importance since rail freight transport is expected to increase in order to meet the climate goals. The shift of the freight industry is however not accomplished without complications, because of the heavier and more frequent transportation higher demand is put on the infrastructure supporting the railways. In order to adequately assess the bearing capacity of the railway bridges, more detailed models assessing the dynamic behavior of the bridges are needed. The research underlying the current model in Eurocode were made during the 1970s (ORE, 1976) and the 1990s (ERRI, 1999) which were based on very simplified relations of the interaction and irregularities. Two research questions are therefore established in this thesis. The first one is if the current dynamic amplification factor in Eurocode which accounts for track irregularities is over conservative and secondly if the same factor is suitable to utilize for both section forces and deflections. The model developed in order to answer the stated research questions is a 2D model (considering only vertical excitation) with a linearized Hertz contact spring coupling the vehicle subsystem to the track-bridge system. The bridges examined in the thesis are limited to simply supported bridges with a span length between 4-20 m carrying a ballasted track. The studied train speeds vary between 60 - 120 km/h in order to replicate the speed range utilized by freight trains. The quality of the track (irregularities) is varied between a standard variation of 0.5-5 mm and is generated based on the German power spectral density (PSD) function. Research have previously been carried out in the field of TTBI system but have mostly been focusing on high-speed railway engineering and few studies have been performed on heavy transportation. One of the pioneers in the field of TTBI modelling is Wanming Zhai and the model developed in this thesis is validated against one of his 2D models. Based on the simulations performed in this thesis it is evident that the current model in Eurocode EN 1991-2 is over conservative and in great need of a revision. The model presented in this thesis is for the case with the largest dynamic amplification (120 km/h and a 4 m span length) significantly lower than the model presented in Eurocode. From the sensitivity analysis it is possible to conclude that many of the parameters in the system have low influence on the dynamic amplification while others have considerable influence. The parameters that have a considerable influence might be more suitable with a probabilistic approach instead of a deterministic which was utilized in this thesis.