scope:

This document defines the technical criteria and control procedures which need to be satisfied by the constituent materials and the finished plastic sleepers and bearers.

The main requirement of plastic sleepers and bearers is transmission of vertical, lateral and longitudinal loads from the rails to the ballast or other support. In use they are also exposed to environmental and chemical impacts, which could influence sleeper performance.

The tests defined in this standard provide assurance of the capability of sleepers or bearers to resist repetitive loading and provide sufficient durability. In addition, controls are placed on manufacturing processes and tests to ensure that the plastic will not suffer unacceptable degradation in service.