摘要: |
The rail is a central component of the wheel-rail system, as it defines the wheel-rail contact patch together with the wheel. Although the rail sits at a central point of the system, it cannot be classified as the most important component. Every component of the system (subgrade, ballast, ties, fastenings, etc.) has an impact on system behavior and thus has a direct or indirect impact on the other components of the system, as well. Only by choosing a holistic approach that considers these components and their interactions can the whole system be optimized. |