| Abstract: | ![]()
The analytical prediction of surface cracks in the rail web is investigated by two different approaches. The first approach uses engineering fracture mechanics principles with elementary beam theory (i.e., one dimensional) stress analysis. The second approach applies the strain energy density criterion to a three dimensional finite element stress analysis of the rail web. Results are presented in terms of crack size as a function of accumulated tonnage for variations in loading (tangent or curved track), support conditions (foundation modulus), and assumed levels of residual stress. The results of both models are consistent in that the predicted growth rates are fairly slow when compared to other types of rail defects (for example, the detail fracture in the rail head). |
