Experimental analysis of longitudinal and lateral track‐bridge interaction of the ballasted track in railway bridges

Abstract Concerning dynamic assessments of railway bridges with ballasted track, the input parameters applied in calculation model significantly influence generated results. In this context, there is still a considerable need for research, especially regarding properties ballast superstructure. This contribution dedicated to an experimental investigation longitudinal track‐bridge interaction (TBI), using special large‐scale test facility as basis. Comparisons are made between normative specifications EN 1991‐2 stiffness depending on load (loaded or unloaded track) and temperature level actual experimentally determined behaviour. Hereby, deviations assumptions reality found. Regarding damping TBI, different mechanisms occur excitation frequency horizontal displacement amplitude. Furthermore, presents initial results currently ongoing research project, which includes analyses lateral track resistance dynamically excited bridges. Here, vertical bridge vibrations investigated.