LIGHT RAIL VEHICLE/TRACK INTERFACE STUDY

This paper describes a comprehensive study conducted for the Port Authority of Allegheny County (the Authority) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The study represented a comprehensive review of wheel/rail interface and wear problems and their causes, and a review of applicable vehicle and track maintenance practices. The overall objectives of the study were to determine optimal configurations for those elements that affect the wheel/rail interface, determine measures to improve ride quality for passengers, provide recommendations to reduce wheel/rail noise, and to optimize equipment life and minimize maintenance and operating costs. Specific tasks aimed at addressing the broad objectives and developing practical and effective solutions included a system condition investigation that evaluated some measured major components of the track structure. Wheel/rail force measurements were collected and evaluated. Both wayside and on-board vehicle measurements were collected and evaluated. A final report was submitted on the entire study and its findings, conclusions, and recommendations.