oSIST prEN 16730:2025

Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers with under sleeper pads

This European Standard is applicable to concrete sleepers or bearers with Under Sleeper Pads (USP) physically bonded to concrete used in ballast track and define the test procedures and their evaluation criteria. This standard provides particular information in the following areas:
- test methods, test arrangements and evaluation criteria of Under Sleeper Pads;
- test methods, test arrangements and evaluation criteria of concrete sleepers and bearers with Under Sleeper Pads;
- data supplied by the purchaser and by the supplier;
- definition of general process of design approval tests;
- definition of routine tests.
This standard defines the specific test procedures for design approval tests, routine tests and tests concerning the determination of relevant properties of Under Sleeper Pad with or without concrete sleepers and bearers:
- fatigue tests;
- tests of capability for stacked stocking of concrete sleepers or bearers fitted with USP;
- pull-out test;
- severe environmental condition test.
This standard also sets out procedures for testing fitness for purpose and provides information on quality monitoring as part of quality assurance procedures. This standard does not, however, contain requirements pertaining to the properties of Under Sleeper Pads. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to define these requirements

Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Gleis- und Weichenschwellen aus Beton mit Schwellensohlen

Dieses Dokument ist anwendbar für Schwellensohlen (USP, en: under sleeper pads) an Gleis- oder Weichenschwellen aus Beton, welche physikalisch mit dem Beton der Schwelle verbunden sind und im Schotterbett verwendet werden, und legt die Prüfverfahren sowie die Bewertungskriterien fest. Diese Norm enthält spezielle Angaben über folgende Bereiche:
 Prüfverfahren, Prüfanordnungen und Bewertungskriterien für Schwellensohlen;
 Prüfverfahren, Prüfanordnungen und Bewertungskriterien für Gleis- und Weichenschwellen aus Beton mit Schwellensohlen;
 Angaben die vom Kunden und vom Lieferanten bereitzustellen sind;
 Definition des allgemeinen Prozesses für Bauartzulassungsprüfungen;
 Definition von Prüfungen zur Qualitätssicherung (Regelprüfungen).
Dieses Dokument legt die speziellen Prüfverfahren für Bauartzulassungsprüfungen und Prüfungen zur Qualitätssicherung sowie die Prüfungen fest, die die Bestimmung der maßgeblichen Eigenschaften von Schwellensohlen mit oder ohne Gleis- und Weichenschwellen aus Beton betreffen:
 Ermüdungsprüfungen;
 Prüfungen der Stapelfähigkeit von Gleis- oder Weichenschwellen aus Beton mit USP;
 Abreißprüfung;
 Prüfung der Temperaturschwankungen.
Dieses Dokument legt auch Verfahren zur Prüfung der Gebrauchstauglichkeit fest und sie enthält Informationen hinsichtlich der Qualitätsüberwachung als Teil der Verfahren zur Qualitätssicherung. Diese Norm enthält hingegen keine Anforderungen, welche die Eigenschaften von Schwellensohlen betreffen. Es liegt in der Verantwortung des Kunden, diese Anforderungen festzulegen.

Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Traverses et supports en béton avec semelles sous traverse

Le présent document s'applique aux traverses ou aux supports en béton, avec une semelle sous traverse (USP) physiquement liée au béton, posés sur les voies ballastées et définit les modes opératoires d'essai et leurs critères d'évaluation. Le présent document donne des informations particulières dans les domaines suivants :
— méthodes d'essai, montages des essais et critères d'évaluation des semelles sous traverse ;
— méthodes d'essai, montages des essais et critères d'évaluation des traverses et des supports en béton avec semelle sous traverse ;
— données fournies par l'acheteur et par le fournisseur ;
— définition des processus généraux des essais de qualification ;
— définition des essais de série.
Le présent document définit les modes opératoires d'essai spécifiques pour les essais de qualification et les essais de routine mais aussi les essais permettant de déterminer les propriétés pertinentes des semelles sous traverse avec ou sans traverse et support en béton :
— essais de fatigue ;
— essais de capacité de stockage vertical des traverses ou des supports en béton équipés d'USP ;
— essai d'arrachement ;
— essai de variation de température.
Le présent document établit également des modes opératoires pour les essais d'aptitude à l'emploi et fournit des informations sur la gestion de la qualité dans le cadre des procédures d'assurance qualité. Toutefois, le présent document ne contient pas d’exigences relatives aux propriétés des semelles sous traverse. Il est de la responsabilité de l’acheteur de définir ces exigences.

Železniške naprave - Zgornji ustroj proge - Betonski pragi in nosilci s podpragovnimi podlogami

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 09-Apr-2025
• ICS: 45.080 - Rails and railway components
• ICS: 91.100.30 - Concrete and concrete products
• ICS: 93.100 - Construction of railways
• Technical Committee: IŽNP - Reilway applications
• Current Stage: 4020 - Public enquire (PE) (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 19-Feb-2025
• Due Date: 09-Jul-2025
• Completion Date: 31-Mar-2025
• Directive: 2016/797/EU - Directive (EU) 2016/797 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the interoperability of the rail system within the European Union (Text with EEA relevance)
• Mandate: M/483 - Mandate for programming and standardisation addressed to the European standardisation bodies under directive 2008/57/EC in the field of the interoperability of the rail system within the European Union
• Ref Project: prEN 16730 - Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers with under sleeper pads

Relations

• Replaces: SIST EN 16730:2016 - Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers with under sleeper pads
• Effective Date: 31-Aug-2022

Overview

The oSIST prEN 16730:2025 standard, titled Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers with under sleeper pads (USP), is a European technical specification issued by CEN (European Committee for Standardization). It applies specifically to concrete railway sleepers and bearers fitted with under sleeper pads physically bonded to the concrete for use in ballast track construction. This standard outlines detailed test procedures, evaluation criteria, and quality assurance methods to ensure the reliability and performance of USP materials and assemblies under railway operational conditions.

This standard serves as a critical guideline for manufacturers, purchasers, and testing authorities involved in the design, approval, and routine testing of concrete sleepers with USP. It covers both the material properties and the mechanical, environmental, and fatigue performance of USPs integrated with concrete sleepers and bearers.

Key Topics

• Test Methods and Evaluation Criteria: The standard details the various tests required for design approval and routine monitoring, including:

  • Fatigue tests replicating operational load cycles.
  • Pull-out tests to assess bond strength between USP and concrete.
  • Capability tests for safe stacking of sleepers fitted with USPs.
  • Environmental tests for resistance to severe weather and temperature variations.

• Design Approval Process: Specifies a comprehensive process of approval involving initial material characterization, prototype testing, and full-scale testing on concrete sleepers integrating USPs.

• Data Requirements: Defines information that purchasers must supply, and what suppliers are required to provide before and after design approval-ensuring clear communication and traceability.

• Quality Monitoring and Assurance: Guidelines to maintain consistent product quality during manufacture by defining routine tests and inspection procedures.

• Test Arrangements: Includes both static and dynamic bedding modulus tests to evaluate the mechanical behavior of USPs under typical railway load frequencies.

• Environmental Durability: Addresses the impact of temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors relevant to rail infrastructure applications.

Applications

• Ballast Track Construction: USPs bonded to concrete sleepers provide vital support and impact cushioning improving track longevity.

• Railway Track Stability: Enhances the dynamic behavior of sleepers, reducing track deformation and maintenance needs.

• Vibration Damping: Improved vibration absorption protects track components and rolling stock, contributing to passenger comfort and infrastructure durability.

• Environmental Adaptation: Ensures under sleeper pads perform reliably in diverse climates and harsh conditions, protecting the concrete sleepers from environmental degradation.

• Inventory and Handling Procedures: Stacking capability tests facilitate safe storage and transportation of sleepers with bonded USPs, reducing damage risks.

Related Standards

• EN 13230 – Concrete sleepers and bearers for railway tracks, focusing on general requirements without USPs.
• EN 13481 – Track components, including properties and testing of conventional and elastic rail pads.
• EN 13848 – Railway track geometric quality standards supporting track component performance.
• ISO 9001 – Quality management systems guidelines applicable to manufacturing and quality control processes referenced in this standard.
• National standards for railway track components which might incorporate regional specifications alongside oSIST prEN 16730:2025.

---

Keywords: oSIST prEN 16730:2025, concrete sleepers, under sleeper pads, railway track standards, ballast track, fatigue testing, bond strength test, railway infrastructure, quality assurance, CEN standards, track components, vibration damping, environmental durability.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-april-2025
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 16730:2016
Železniške naprave - Zgornji ustroj proge - Betonski pragi in nosilci s
podpragovnimi podlogami
Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers with under sleeper pads
Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Gleis- und Weichenschwellen aus Beton mit
Schwellensohlen
Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Traverses et supports en béton avec semelles sous
traverse
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 16730
ICS:
45.080 Tračnice in železniški deli Rails and railway
components
91.100.30 Beton in betonski izdelki Concrete and concrete
products
93.100 Gradnja železnic Construction of railways
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
February 2025
ICS 93.100 Will supersede EN 16730:2016
English Version
Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and
bearers with under sleeper pads
Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Traverses et supports Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Gleis- und
en béton avec semelles sous traverse Weichenschwellen aus Beton mit Schwellensohlen
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 256.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2025 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 16730:2025 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 6
Introduction . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 Symbols . 12
5 Design approval tests and routine tests . 13
5.1 General. 13
5.2 Summary of design approval tests and routine tests. 13
5.3 Tests of USP alone and of USP on concrete block . 14
5.3.1 Tensile strength of USP material . 14
5.3.2 Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete block with
GBP . 15
5.3.3 Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP alone with GBP . 15
5.3.4 Higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete block . 16
5.3.5 Fatigue test of USP on concrete block in ballast . 17
5.3.6 Fatigue test of USP on concrete block with GBP . 18
5.3.7 Capability of stacking of sleepers with USP, testing by USP on a concrete block . 18
5.3.8 Effect of temperature variation on USP on concrete block . 18
5.3.9 Resistance to other environmental parameters . 19
5.4 Tests of concrete sleepers and bearers without USP . 19
5.5 Tests of USP on concrete sleepers and bearers . 19
5.5.1 Dimensions and masses of sleepers and bearers with USP . 19
5.5.2 Bond strength by pull-out of USP on sleeper and bearer . 20
5.5.3 Fatigue test of USP on sleeper . 20
5.5.4 Environment and end of life . 21
6 Data to be supplied . 21
6.1 General. 21
6.2 Data supplied by the purchaser . 21
6.3 Data supplied by the supplier of sleeper with USP . 22
6.3.1 General. 22
6.3.2 Before the design approval tests . 22
6.3.3 After the design approval tests . 22
6.3.4 Prior to first start-up of production . 23
7 Rules for use of sleepers and bearers with USP . 23
8 Quality control . 23
9 Marking, labelling and packaging . 24
Annex A (normative) Geometric Ballast Plate (GBP) . 25
A.1 Design of the GBP . 25
A.2 Material of GBP . 25
Annex B (normative) USP on concrete block . 28
B.1 Design of the USP on concrete block . 28
B.2 Tolerances of USP on concrete block . 28
Annex C (normative) Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete
block or of USP alone with GBP . 30
C.1 General . 30
C.2 Static test procedure . 30
C.2.1 Principle . 30
C.2.2 Apparatus . 30
C.2.3 Procedure . 31
C.2.4 Test report . 33
C.3 Low frequency dynamic test procedure . 34
C.3.1 Principle . 34
C.3.2 Apparatus . 34
C.3.3 Procedure . 34
C.3.4 Test report . 36
Annex D (normative) Fatigue test of USP on concrete block . 37
D.1 Principle . 37
D.2 Apparatus . 37
D.3 Procedure . 38
D.4 Test report . 40
Annex E (normative) Bond strength by pull-out of USP on sleeper and bearer. 41
E.1 Principle . 41
E.2 Apparatus . 41
E.3 Procedure . 41
E.4 Test report . 44
Annex F (normative) Data sheet . 45
F.1 Data Sheet 1 (for USP Materials) . 45
F.2 Data Sheet 2 (for sleepers and bearers with USP) . 46
Annex G (informative) General design approval tests and the routine tests for the USP and
the sleeper with USP . 47
Annex H (informative) Higher frequency dynamic vertical bedding modulus of USP on
concrete block . 48
H.1 Principle . 48
H.2 Test arrangement . 48
H.2.1 Test arrangement for the direct method . 48
H.2.2 USP on concrete block . 50
H.2.3 Ambient Test temperature . 50
H.2.4 Vibration test velocity . 50
H.3 Test procedure and evaluation . 50
H.3.1 General. 50
H.3.2 Loss factor η . 51
H.3.2.1 General. 51
H.3.2.2 Test implementation and evaluation . 51
H.3.3 Higher frequency dynamic stiffening ratio κ (80 Hz) . 51
H
H.4 Test report . 51
Annex I (informative) Fatigue test of USP on concrete block with GBP . 52
I.1 Principle . 52
I.2 Apparatus . 52
I.3 Procedure . 53
I.4 Test report . 55
Annex J (informative) Capability of stacking of sleepers with USP . 56
J.1 Principle . 56
J.2 Apparatus . 56
J.3 Procedure . 57
J.4 Test report . 58
Annex K (informative) Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on
concrete sleeper or bearer with GBP . 59
K.1 General. 59
K.2 Static test procedure . 59
K.2.1 Apparatus . 59
K.2.2 Procedure . 60
K.2.3 Test report . 63
K.3 Low frequency dynamic test procedure . 63
K.3.1 Principle . 63

K.3.2 Apparatus . 63
K.3.3 Procedure . 64
K.3.4 Test report . 66
Annex L (informative) Fatigue test on USP on sleeper Method 1 . 67
L.1 Principle . 67
L.2 Apparatus . 67
L.3 Procedure . 69
L.4 Test report . 70
Annex M (informative) Fatigue test on USP on sleeper Method 2 . 72
M.1 Principle . 72
M.2 Apparatus . 72
M.3 Procedure . 73
M.4 Test report . 75
Annex N (informative) Effect of temperature variation on USP on concrete block . 76
N.1 Principle . 76
N.2 Apparatus . 76
N.3 Procedure . 76
Test report . 78
Bibliography . 79

European foreword
This document (prEN 16730:2025) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 256
“Railway applications”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 16730:2016.
In comparison with the previous edition, the following technical modifications have been made:
— to improve parts of the procedure that involve concrete blocks to make it easier to implement and
increase its relevance;
— to review some requirements for USP surface planarity/flatness to make it more practical and
improve the procedure for making concrete blocks;
— to review some requirements for USP to help to contribute to innovative products;
— to capitalize on the experience from the field gained by industry manufacturers and infrastructure
managers since the previous publication.
Introduction
This document relates to the EN 13230 series when the sleepers or bearers are manufactured with Under
Sleeper Pad (USP). The USP is an elastic layer fixed to the bottom surface of the sleepers or bearers. This
document applies to the system constituted of the concrete sleepers or bearers and the Under Sleeper
Pad.
For more information, the following document “IRS 70713-1”: “Railway Application - Track & Structure -
“Under Sleeper Pads (USP) - Recommendations for Use” proposes different recommendations:
• for USP classification and their fields of applications;
• for cases of use of USP;
• for the design approval tests and routine tests.
1 Scope
This document is applicable to concrete sleepers or bearers with Under Sleeper Pads (USP) physically
bonded to concrete used in ballast track and define the test procedures and their evaluation criteria. This
document provides particular information in the following areas:
— test methods, test arrangements and evaluation criteria of Under Sleeper Pads;
— test methods, test arrangements and evaluation criteria of concrete sleepers and bearers with Under
Sleeper Pads;
— data supplied by the purchaser and by the supplier;
— definition of general process of design approval tests;
— definition of routine tests.
This document defines the specific test procedures for design approval tests, routine tests and tests
concerning the determination of relevant properties of Under Sleeper Pad with or without concrete
sleepers and bearers:
— fatigue tests;
— tests of capability for stacking of concrete sleepers or bearers fitted with USP;
— pull-out test;
— temperature variation test.
This document also sets out procedures for testing fitness for purpose and provides information on
quality monitoring as part of quality assurance procedures. This document does not, however, contain
requirements pertaining to the properties of Under Sleeper Pads. It is the responsibility of the purchaser
to define these requirements
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 206, Concrete - Specification, performance, production and conformity
EN 1542, Products and systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures - Test methods -
Measurement of bond strength by pull-off
EN 10027 (all parts), Designation systems for steels
EN 13230-1:2016, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 1: General
requirements
EN 13230-2:2016, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 2: Prestressed
monoblock sleepers
Impacted by EN 206:2013+A1:2021
EN 13230-3:2016, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 3: Twin-block
reinforced sleepers
EN 13230-4:2016+A1:2020, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 4:
Prestressed bearers for switches and crossings
EN 13230-5, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 5: Special elements
EN 13230-6, Railway applications - Track - Concrete sleepers and bearers - Part 6: Design
EN 13450, Aggregates for railway ballast
EN 17343, Railway applications - General terms and definitions
EN ISO 527 (all parts), Plastics — Determination of tensile properties (ISO 527, all parts)
EN ISO 7500-1, Metallic materials - Calibration and verification of static uniaxial testing machines - Part 1:
Tension/compression testing machines - Calibration and verification of the force-measuring system (ISO
7500-1)
EN ISO 9513:2012, Metallic materials - Calibration of extensometer systems used in uniaxial testing
(ISO 9513:2012+AC:2013)
EN 22768-1, General tolerances - Part 1: Tolerances for linear and angular dimensions without individual
tolerance indications (ISO 2768-1)
ISO 37, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic — Determination of tensile stress-strain properties
ISO 291:2008, Plastics — Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 17343 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
track category TC1
track using concrete sleepers or bearers with under sleeper pads designed for urban light rail and some
industrial track with a typical axle load between 100 kN and 130 kN, a typical maximum speed of 100
km/h, a typical rail section of 49E1 and a typical sleeper or support spacing of 650 mm
(maximum 750 mm)
3.2
track category TC2
track using concrete sleepers or bearers with under sleeper pads designed for urban light rail and some
industrial track with a typical axle load of 160 kN, a typical maximum speed of 140 km/h, a typical rail
section of 54E1 and a typical sleeper or support spacing of 650 mm

Impacted by EN ISO 9513:2012+AC:2013.
3.3
track category TC3
track using concrete sleepers or bearers with under sleeper pads designed for either:
— conventional main line railways with a typical axle load of 225 kN, a typical maximum speed
of 200 km/h, a typical rail section of 60E1 and a typical sleeper or support spacing of 600 mm; or
— track using concrete sleepers or bearers with under sleeper pads designed for lines with large radius
curves, often used for high speed trains and having a typical axle load of 200 kN, a typical maximum
speed of 320 km/h, a typical rail section of 60E1, a typical sleeper or support spacing of 600 mm; or
— freight line railways with a typical axle load of 250 kN, a typical maximum speed of 120 km/h, a
typical rail section of 60E1 and a typical sleeper or support spacing of 600 mm
3.4
track category TC4
track using concrete sleepers or bearers with under sleeper pads designed for mixed traffic line carrying
heavy freight trains with a typical axle load of 300 kN, a typical maximum speed of 200 km/h, a typical
rail section of 60E1 and a typical sleeper or support spacing of 600 mm
3.5
ballasted track
track in which the sleepers or bearers are embedded in the ballast
3.6
sleeper
transverse components of the track which control the gauge and transmit loads from the rail to the ballast
or other sleeper support
3.7
bearer
transverse components of switches and crossings which control the relative geometry of two or more
stretches of running rails and different pieces of special track work, and transmit loads from the rails to
the ballast or other sleeper support
3.8
Under Sleeper Pad
USP
elastic layer fixed to the bottom surface of the sleepers or bearers including technologies of bonding
between sleepers or bearers and under sleeper pad
3.9
stiffness
force per unit deflection measured under a uniaxial force
3.10
bedding modulus
pressure (force per surface) per unit deflection and measured under a uniaxial load
3.11
stiffness or bedding modulus
stiffness or bedding modulus in vertical direction measured normal to the base of the sleeper where the
support is a slab, between two specified applied loads
3.12
static stiffness or bedding modulus
force or pressure per unit deflection measured under a uniaxial static load
3.13
dynamic stiffness or bedding modulus
force or pressure per unit deflection measured under a cyclic uniaxial load
Note 1 to entry: Low frequency dynamic stiffness or bedding modulus: stiffness or bedding modulus measured
within the frequency range (2 to 30) Hz (without preloading between defined pressures, see Figure 1).
Note 2 to entry: Higher frequency dynamic stiffness or bedding modulus: stiffness or bedding modulus measured
within the frequency range (20 to 450) Hz (under preloading conditions see Table H.1, see Figure 1).
3.14
vibration mitigation
reduction in emission of mechanical vibration and/or structure-borne noise into the surroundings
3.15
geometric ballast plate
GBP
rigid steel plate with a geometrically structured surface simulating ballast contact
Note 1 to entry: See Annex A.
3.16
design approval test
homologation procedure with description of the product properties and test results
3.17
routine test
quality control test in terms of regular manufacturing
3.18
purchaser
operator or user of the equipment, or the customer of the material on the user’s behalf
3.19
supplier
body responsible for the use of the EN in response to the purchaser’s requirement and also for
requirements which apply to the producer or manufacturer
Note 1 to entry: Generally the supplier is the manufacturer of the concrete sleepers and has a sub-contractor for
the USPs.
3.20
USP on concrete block
USP bonded on concrete block
Note 1 to entry: See Annex B.
4 Symbols
Table 1 lists the parameters and physical quantities used.
Table 1 — Symbols
Symbols Characterization Units
A area mm
a acceleration in measurement of higher frequency bedding 2
m/s
modulus
C bedding modulus 3
N/mm
d displacement mm
Δ variation -
F force N
f frequency in measurement Hz
k stiffness N/mm
L −8 dB
H vibration level related to reference value of 5 × 10 m/s
m mass kg
N number of cycles -
η loss factor -
p pressure N/mm
κ stiffening coefficient between low frequency dynamic bedding -
modulus and static bedding modulus
σ stress (pressure or tensile) N/mm
ω angular frequency = 2π · f (for higher frequency bedding −1
s
modulus)
Table 2 lists the indices used with the parameters and physical quantities.
Table 2 — Indice of the symbols
Indices Characterization
0 for frequency, definition of natural frequency
5 Hz, 10 Hz, value of frequency in measurement
20 Hz, 30 Hz
af after
av average
be before
dyn low frequency dynamic
H higher frequency
max maximum
min minimum
Indices Characterization
number sequential number in order to differentiate types of measurements
pre preload
stat static
tend tendency
test test load
5 Design approval tests and routine tests
5.1 General
This subclause defines the objectives of tests or of required information about the system (sleeper with
USP), USP and concrete sleepers and bearers.
The data sheets and the general processes of USP and sleeper with USP are described in Annex F and
Annex G.
If a tested USP is used with different concrete sleepers or bearers (different types or different
manufacturing process), the purchaser shall state, as a selection of in Tables 3 to 5 given tests, which tests
shall be performed.
5.2 Summary of design approval tests and routine tests
The design approval tests and the routine tests consist of the following three stages:
— tests of USP alone and of USP on concrete block (see Table 3);
— tests of concrete sleepers and bearers without USP (see Table 4);
— tests of USP on concrete sleepers and bearers (see Table 5).
The frequency of routine tests is defined according to the quality plan of the suppliers (see Clause 8).
Table 3 — Tests of USP alone and of USP on concrete block
Routine
Tests Subclause Design approval tests
tests
Tensile strength of USP material 5.3.1 Optional Optional
Mandatory for static, 5
Static and low frequency dynamic bedding
5.3.2 and 10 Hz, optional for
modulus of USP on concrete block with GBP
1 of 2 is
20 and 30 Hz
Mandatory
Static and low frequency dynamic bedding
5.3.3 Optional
modulus of USP alone with GBP
Optional (but
Higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus recommended if USP is Not
5.3.4
of USP on concrete block used for vibrations Applicable
attenuation)
Fatigue test of USP on concrete block in Not
5.3.5 Mandatory
ballast Applicable
Routine
Tests Subclause Design approval tests
tests
Optional (but
Fatigue test of USP on concrete block with recommended if USP is Not
5.3.6
GBP used for vibrations Applicable
attenuation)
Capability of stacking of sleepers with USP on Not
5.3.7 Optional
concrete block Applicable
Effect of temperature variation on USP on Not
5.3.8 Optional
concrete block Applicable
Not
Resistance to water (Hydrolysis) 5.3.9 Optional
Applicable
Resistance to chemical agents related to the Not
5.3.9 Optional
manufacture of sleepers or bearers Applicable
Not
Resistance to fire 5.3.9 Optional
Applicable
Not
Resistance to hydrocarbon 5.3.9 Optional
Applicable
Not
Resistance to ozone 5.3.9 Optional
Applicable
Table 4 — Tests of concrete sleepers and bearers without USP
Routine
Tests Subclause Design approval tests
tests
Requirements of concrete sleepers and
5.4 Mandatory Mandatory
bearers
Table 5 — Tests of USP on concrete sleepers and bearers
Routine
Tests Subclause Design approval tests
tests
Dimensions and masses of sleepers and
5.5.1 Mandatory Mandatory
bearers with USP
Bond strength by pull-out of USP on sleeper
5.5.2 Mandatory Mandatory
and bearer
Not
Fatigue test of USP on sleeper 5.5.3 Optional
Applicable
Not
Environment and end of life 5.5.4 Optional
Applicable
5.3 Tests of USP alone and of USP on concrete block
5.3.1 Tensile strength of USP material
The tensile strength measured during the design approval tests shall determine the reference value of
these tensile strengths to confirm the quality of the USP during the routine tests. The test should permit
the measurement of the tensile strengths both parallel and perpendicular to the production direction of
USP (if there is a difference in production direction).
a) Test arrangement:
The test is performed on USP in accordance with the EN ISO 527 series or ISO 37 and with the
supplier’s indications which are approved by the purchaser. The test shall be done on the USP
without bonding and protection layer. The supplier shall specify the thickness of the samples.
NOTE For USP materials not considered by these two standards, adaptation on the sample size can be
allowed, in accordance with the purchaser.
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on 6 tested samples (3 samples are stamped out parallel to the
production direction of USP and 3 samples perpendicular to the production direction of USP).
The supplier shall provide a reference value of tensile strength within the range of purchaser’s acceptance
values.
5.3.2 Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete block with GBP
The static and the low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of the USP on concrete block with GBP allow
the bedding modulus of the USP to be quantified without the influence of manufacturing process of the
sleepers.
a) Test arrangement:
The static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of the USP on concrete block with GBP shall
be measured in accordance with Annex C.
The low frequency dynamic bedding modulus is measured at (5 ± 1) Hz and (10 ± 1) Hz (and optional
frequency tests at (20 ± 2) Hz and (30 ± 3) Hz).
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on 3 concrete blocks with USP.
The purchaser shall define the evaluation criteria(s) within the list:
1) purchaser minimum value ≤ C ≤ purchaser maximum value (average or/and individual
stat
value);
2) purchaser minimum value ≤ (C , or C ) ≤ purchaser maximum value (average
dyn 5 Hz dyn,10 Hz
or/and individual value).
The supplier shall provide a reference value of bedding modulus for routine test, in the range of purchaser
acceptance values.
5.3.3 Static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP alone with GBP
The static and the low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of the USP alone with GBP allows the vertical
bedding modulus of the USP to be quantified without the influence of a bonding system in concrete. This
method requires a USP without a bonding system or with a bonding system which has no influence on
the bedding modulus.
The static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus measured during the design approval tests shall
determine the reference value of these bedding moduli to follow the quality of the production of USP
during the routine tests
NOTE 1 The values of bedding modulus with and without concrete block can be different.
a) Test arrangement:
The static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP alone with GBP shall be measured in
accordance with Annex C.
The low frequency dynamic bedding modulus is measured at (5 ± 1) Hz and (10 ± 1) Hz (and optional
frequency tests at (20 ± 2) Hz and (30 ± 3) Hz).
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on 3 USP alone.
The supplier shall provide a reference value of bedding modulus for routine test, within the range of the
results.
NOTE 2 The bedding modulus with and without concrete block are not necessarily the same values.
5.3.4 Higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete block
This test evaluates the capacity of USP to insulate vibrations.
a) Test arrangement:
The higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus of USP on concrete block with GBP shall be
measured in accordance with Annex H. The testing procedure and equipment are different to the
determination of low frequency dynamic bedding modulus.
NOTE 1 In contrast to the test of the low frequency dynamic bedding modulus C , the test procedure to
dyn
measure the higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus C is carried out with static preloading and with
H
smaller vibration amplitude. For this reason the values of the two moduli are not the same when measured at
the same frequency, e.g. at 20 Hz, C (20 Hz) ≠ C (20 Hz) (see Figure 1).
H dyn
NOTE 2 The magnitude of the loss factor η of a USP influences the dynamic magnification in the region of
the natural frequency of the elastically supported track as an oscillatory system. It determines the edge
steepness of the amplitude response and thus the insertion loss of the overall system (see H.3).
Key
a curve for higher frequency dynamic bedding modulus
b curve for static and low frequency dynamic bedding modulus
C 3
bedding modulus, in N/mm
f frequency, in Hz
Figure 1 — Example of a frequency-dependant bedding modulus curve (with and without
preload force)
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on one USP on concrete block.
The purchaser shall define the evaluation criteria.
5.3.5 Fatigue test of USP on concrete block in ballast
This test evaluates the durability of USP in contact with ballast. This fatigue test permits the evaluation
of the interaction of the ballast with USP.
a) Test arrangement:
The fatigue test of the USP on concrete block shall be carried out in accordance with Annex D.
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on one USP on concrete block.
Visual inspection shall be according to the purchaser's criteria.
5.3.6 Fatigue test of USP on concrete block with GBP
This test evaluates the durability, stability of bedding modulus and vibration characteristics (in case of
use for vibration applications) of USP in contact with GBP. This test permits the evaluation of the long
term variation of bedding modulus of USP.
a) Test arrangement:
The fatigue test of USP on concrete block shall be measured in accordance with Annex I.
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on one USP on concrete block.
The purchaser shall define the evaluation criteria in the list:
1) ΔC ≤ purchaser value;
stat
2) ΔC ≤ purchaser value.
dyn, 5 Hz
5.3.7 Capability of stacking of sleepers with USP, testing by USP on a concrete block
This test permits the impact on the USP when stacked in storage to be quantified.
a) Test arrangement:
The capability for stacking of USP shall be measured in accordance with Annex J.
The purchaser defines the minimum test pressure p .
test,min
Example of calculation of p : p = (safety coefficient) x 0,8 N/mm (15 sleepers of 3 000 N
test,min test,min
each on two wood battens with a contact section with USP of 280 mm x 100 mm ≥ 0,8 N/mm ).
NOTE Safety coefficient is usually 1,2
The USP manufacturer chooses the test pressure ptest. This test pressure shall be greater or equal to
p . Results are valid for all the values less or equal to the test load.
test,min
b) Design approval tests:
The test method shall be applied on one USP on concrete block.
Visual inspection shall be according to the purchaser criteria.
The purchaser shall define the evaluation criteria in the list:
1) ΔC ≤ purchaser value;
stat
2) ΔC ≤ purchaser value;
dyn, 5 Hz
3) variation of thickness of the USP ≤ purchaser value.
5.3.8 Effect of temperature variation on USP on concrete block
This test evaluates the effect of temperature variation on the USP (and its bonding to the sleeper) to
quantify its resistance to seasonal changes in ambient conditions. In addition, it evaluates the suitability
of the USP for use with accelerated concre
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