Evaluation of Life Cycle Costs of Alternate Tie (Sleeper)/Fastener Systems and Their Use in Defining Maintenance Policy and Practice
Date
1997-11
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
World Conference on Railroad Research
Abstract
The selection of the optimum track system configuration is very much dependent on the performance requirements and economic characteristics of the rail operation that is being configured. One of the key decisions in selecting an appropriate track system is the selection of the proper cross-tie (sleeper)/fastener system. The range of available systems include a wide selection of cross-tie (sleeper) and fastener types and materials and their associated purchase price, installation cost, and maintenance activities. As a result, the selection of the economically “optimum” such system will vary greatly based on purchase prices, material and labor costs, and requirements of the rail operation itself. In order to help in this decision making process, economic analyses models have been developed and implemented. These models are life cycle costing models that take into account not only initial costs but maintenance activities which occur over the life of the track system. By accurately accounting for these costs, and their associated timing, it is possible to evaluate alternate design configurations and cost structures in order to help select the system that is “best” for a given operation and geographic location. One such model, the Railway Tie Association’ SelecTie Model, has been used by various railways in making decisions as to where to use different tie/fastener configurations and systems. The SelecTie Model has been widely used in North America, by railroads representing over 200,000 miles (300,000 kilometers) of track under a broad range of operating conditions to include heavy axle load freight and lighter axle load passenger operations. Its focus is to assist in the decision as to the most cost effective (on a life cycle basis) cross-tie material. The model, with its easy to use format and structure, has been the basis for decisions as to what ties to use (wood vs. concrete) and the definition of the usage “boundaries” (in terms of curvature and tonnage categories).
Description
Keywords
Cross-tie, Sleeper, Life cycle costing, Maintenance, Model
Citation
Zarembski, A.M., and Gauntt, J.C., “Evaluation of Life Cycle Costs of Alternate Tie (Sleeper)/Fastener Systems and Their Use in Defining Maintenance Policy and Practice”, World Conference on Railroad Research, Florence, Italy, November 1997.