RAIL WEAR AND CORRUGATION PROBLEMS RELATED TO UNIT TRAIN OPERATIONS: CAUSES AND REMEDIAL ACTION

This paper is a case study of rail wear problems on Canadian National's main line through the Rocky Mountains as a result of unit train operation. The problems are gauge-face wear on the high rail on curves, rail head flow on the low rail and corrugations having a wavelength varying from 8 to 30 inches on the low rail. Prior to introduction of unit trains there were almost no such problems. A study of the lateral forces is described. Remedial action requires a concentrated effort by Engineering, Equipment and Transportation groups with no quick "fix" available. Absence of any action will only cause track deterioration and if it is desired to more bulk commodities in unit trains, the problem must be attacked in an organized manner.