APPLICATION OF THE RHEOLOGIC MECHANICS THEORY TO TRACK STRUCTURES OF RAILWAY

This paper is mainly concerned with the rheologic phenomena in the structure of track plane and ballast of railway. Based on the rheologic theory, the problems of track mechanics are studied. After a systematic experimental research, the rheologic mechanics characteristics of the ballast, such as its elasticity, plasticity and stickiness, are revealed and a theoretical model is developed for it. In comparison with that of former USSR, it is shown that the present model is more reasonable. The present work lays down the foundation for further study of the mechanical properties of track structures and improvement of design methodology and maintenance for high-speed railway.