Keywords: instrumented turnout, wheel/rail contact, crossing nose damage.

The dynamic behaviour of turnout crossings is analysed using field measurements. The dynamic responses of a turnout due to passing trains are measured using a mobile device. The main elements of the device are the 3D acceleration sensor (to be installed at the crossing nose), the velocity sensor and the sleeper displacement sensor. The measured dynamic response of the turnout primarily comprises of the accelerations of the crossing nose and the displacements of a sleeper recorded in three dimensions. The geometry of the crossing nose of the turnouts has been measured using a laser-based device Calipri.

Based on velocity of the passing trains (which is also measured) the locations of the maximum accelerations of the crossing nose due to each wheel are derived. These locations indicate the most probable area for initiation of the fatigue defects on the crossing nose. Using the above-mentioned device a number of turnouts were measured. The dynamic responses were collected and analysed.

From the measured results it was observed that the type of rolling stock and geometry of the crossing nose have strong influence on the location of the impact contact on the crossing nose and finally on its damage.

Based on these results it can be concluded that by proper adjustment of the crossing nose geometry its condition can be controlled and damage to the crossing nose can be reduced.

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