DigiRail High-performance computing of construction, operation and maintenance of railway infrastructure

Important results from the project

The project has developed and validated an advanced simulation model for railway infrastructure, integrating DEM, FEM and MBD. The objectives were achieved, and the model provides new insights into ballast behavior, transition zones and maintenance operations. Key results include comparisons of tamping methods, a validated rock material model, improved analysis of track alignment, and new possibilities for more accurate design of future railway superstructures.

Expected long term effects

The project is expected to contribute long term to more accurate design of railway superstructures, more efficient maintenance and reduced ballast degradation. The developed simulation model can in the future support stress-based design of transition zones, evaluation of under sleeper pads, and decisions related to axle load increases on the Iron Ore Line. The results can thereby strengthen both operational reliability and life-cycle cost efficiency.

Approach and implementation

The project was carried out as planned, with method development and validation through shear tests, sleeper push tests at Dynapac, full-scale wheel loader tests at Volvo CE, and comparisons with machine data from Infranord. Synergies also emerged with LTU’s trough-bridge project. Some planned field tests in the railway infrastructure were difficult to execute, which was handled by focusing on projects at Västlänken and Högsjö. Collaboration within the project group worked very well.