scope:

The scope of the handbook

Junction is the term given to those parts of the permanent way which enable tracks to converge, diverge or cross one another at the same level. To do this, the tracks must, necessarily, contain breaks (or discontinuities) in the running surface which train wheels must pass over. The consequence of the train wheels 'falling' into these breaks is increased loading on the track components tight curves and generally is incanted, it is subjected to high centrifugal forces as trains pass over it. These factors combine to make junctionwork less stable, less likely to sustain top and sustain top and alignment and more likely to wear out than plain line track. Consequently, junctionwork needs more frequent maintenance and renewal.

The handbook looks at the maintenance of the component parts of junctionwork and offers practical guidance on the best ways to prevent failure.

The primary maintenance activity of condition monitoring or inspection is covered throughout the handbook in relation in relation to what needs to be inspecting measured for each component or configuration. The handbook does not contain specific details of inspection regimes, which are dealt with in Track Handbook10, Inspecting the track.

Section 2 provides and overview of junctionwork, describing the basic units and layouts, and their fundamental maintenance requirements. The planning of junctionwork maintenance activities is discussed in section3.

The maintenance of features common to all junctionwork configurations is covered in section 4 the track bed; including ballasted and concreted junctionwork. Section 5 looks at crossing timbers, and common rail supports and fastenings are discussed in section 6. The problems associated with the inspection and maintenance of the plain running rails and rail joints connecting the various junctionwork units to from layouts are considered in section 7. Maintaining the basic units of points and crossings their special equipment supports, and fastenings are the subjects of section 8 and 9 respectively.

Section 10 covers the maintenance of the special configuration of conductor rails needed in junctionwork and the particular problems that can arise through conductor rail movement. Ancillary equipment, such as point heaters, is covered in section 11.

The safe, reliable functioning of junctionwork is a fundamental requirement of the service LUL providers its customers who place reliability of service high on their list of service requirements. Additionally, at very small extra cost, a smooth ride can be achieved.