2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

CIVE5334M Railway Track Infrastructure Design

15 creditsClass Size: 50

Module manager: Professor Peter Woodward
Email: p.k.woodward@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module provides the key knowledge and understanding needed to design railway track structures and their alignment. In the first part of the module the concepts of track performance, measurement and behaviour are addressed. The second part of the module concentrates on track improvement methods and track alignment considerations.

Objectives

This module aims to:
1. Develop a broad understanding of the critical track components that constitute a railway
2. Develop understanding of the effect of loading on a railway and the principles of track design
3. Teach students the theory of track maintenance

Learning outcomes
1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts of track design, and the importance of track characteristics for the railway operation. Achieved through the critical understanding of complex engineering principles combined with mathematical analysis and the understanding of complex natural systems such as the effect of environmental conditions. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M1);

2. Knowledge and understanding of the principles of settlement and drainage defined within a complex track loading environment. This involves the definition and solution of problems involving critical analysis and thought. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M2);

3. Ability to use appropriate analytical approaches for complex railway track problems and explore solutions using new and emerging technologies while discussing their limitations. New complex research topics are introduced and developed towards track design and analysis, such critical velocity concepts for high-speed railways. (AHEP 4 Learning outcome M3);

4. Apply an understanding of railway track engineering concepts and how they are applied in practice. This is developed through actual track behaviour examples, demonstrating complex problem solving and critical thinking with regards to track system integration and interaction;

5. Critical analysis for development of conclusions from incomplete datasets of track behaviour in order to solve a complex problem through engineering judgement and mathematical analysis of available data. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M2);

6. Application of equations derived from engineering first principles. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M2).

This module contributes to AHEP 4 Learning outcomes M1, M2, M3.

Skills outcomes
Skills outcomes.

Academic:
a) the ability to weigh up different arguments and perspectives, using supporting evidence to form opinions, arguments, theories and ideas;

b) the ability to use the oral, written, auditory, and visual language proficiency needed to be able to learn effectively and demonstrate understanding;

c) An ability to identify when technical knowledge & understanding maybe limited and/or technical information incomplete and then use technical judgement to provide an appropriate design;

d) An ability to apply analytical methods to solve complex problems, using equations and graphical representations, and understanding their limitations;

e) An ability to understand and combine different behavioural characteristics in order to develop a railway track design.

Sustainability:
f) Applies different problem-solving frameworks to complex sustainable development problems; develops viable, inclusive and equitable solutions; utilises appropriate competencies to solve problems; develops innovative and creative solutions;

g) An ability to investigate and understand a track fault issue and identify any potential constraints in order to provide a sustainable environmental solution considering any health and safety requirements within the context of a track standard.


Work Ready:
h) The ability to take a logical approach to solving problems; resolving issues by tackling from different angles, using both analytical and creative skills. The ability to understand, interpret, analyse and manipulate numerical data;

i) The ability to generate ideas, demonstrate originality and imaginative thinking, including the concept of ‘thinking outside the box' ;

j) Skills in numeracy and literacy, including written communications. Being able to understand, interpret, analyse and manipulate numerical data;

k) An ability to apply advanced problem-solving skills, technical knowledge and understanding, to establish rigorous and creative solutions that are fit for purpose for salient aspects of track infrastructure design;

l) An ability to understand financial consequences when determining an appropriate design for a track infrastructure related problem.

Syllabus

1. Ground conditions and track stiffness.
2. Ballast and concrete slab track.
3. Track settlement.
4. Static and dynamic displacement amplification.
5. Ground improvement techniques, including use of geosynthetic applications.
6. Track drainage design.
7. Track alignment design.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	11	2.00	22.00
Tutorial	10	1.00	10.00
Independent online learning hours			24.00
Private study hours			94.00
Total Contact hours			32.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Private study

Students will need to conduct independent reading, both of given materials and self-found materials. This will support their learning and be an integral part of the coursework.

Private study:
- Exam revision: 60 hours
- 3hrs reading per week for 11 weeks: 33hrs
- Independent Online Learning: 24 hours

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Formative, weekly tutorials will be held for students to discuss their progress on the class and tutorial questions.

Methods of assessment

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)	3 hr 00 mins	100.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 29/04/2024 16:12:18

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