Title: Concrete Use in Railroad Right-of-Way

Author(s): E. B. Sheldon

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 93

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 329-342

Keywords: concrete slabs; grade crossings; performance; prestressed concrete; railroad bridges; railroad ties

DOI: 10.14359/6309

Date: 9/1/1986

Abstract:
The concrete grade ties in use since 1965, in mainline have provided evidence of longevity, maintenance requirements and other fixtures to improve road conditions. To eliminate transition problems from wood to concrete or vice versa, making a total concrete tied railroad will improve conditions. In 1969, the Florida East Coast Railway began an agressive program of installing concrete crossing ties in all grade crossings. A potential crossing of special ties designed to support the rail and traffic with specially prepared concrete slabs for support of highway traffic is a proven improvement. Concrete bridge ties for use on open deck bridges were first designed and installed in 1965. A railroad has three problem areas: grade crossings, bridge approaches and switches. The design of the concrete switch tie completes the entire rail-road tie need converted to concrete. The tie conceived in 1979, and perfected in 1983, was first installed in 1984, is still being modified for manufacturing ease and standardization. The tie is performing as planned with no adjustment on maintenance required after installation and retaining the basic theory of grade ties, bridge ties and crossing ties that restricting rail movement is the key to controlling alignment and surface. The impact is thereby easily dealt with. The heft of the entire turnout allows for less wear and tear and extends the life of the assembly. The Railroad Concrete Crosstie Corp. also manufactures security/sound barrier walls, prefabricated buildings, mile posts, prefab battery boxes, fibre-optic cable junction boxes and prefab bridge head walls. Concrete is the strong, durable material for fixtures of a working railroad.