scope:

This part of the EN 13230 series defines technical criteria andcontrol procedures which need to be satisfied by the constituentmaterials and the finished concrete sleepers and bearers, i.e.:precast concrete sleepers, twin-block reinforced sleepers, bearersfor switches and crossings, and special elements for railwaytracks. The main requirement of concrete sleepers and bearers isthe transmission of vertical, lateral and longitudinal loads fromthe rails to the ballast or other support. In use, they are alsoexposed to frost damage and to moisture, which can result indetrimental chemical reactions within the sleeper. In this standardmechanical tests are defined which provide assurance of thecapability of sleepers or bearers to resist repetitive loading andprovide sufficient durability. In addition, controls are placed onmanufacturing processes and tests to ensure that the concrete willnot suffer degradation in service through chemical reaction andfrost damage.