Long Term Effects of Reduced Track Tamping Works

Tamping needs to guarantee safety in limiting geometric failures in isolated points, reduce dynamic forces by a smooth through-going longitudinal level, and provide a certain riding comfort for passengers. Although different methods are applied to describe geometry deterioration, the amount of tamping needed is seldomly addressed. In this work, we evaluated and compared different tamping regimes and their long-term consequences by extrapolating the longitudinal level of track. Forecasting beyond one tamping action needs a precise positioning of measurement data and a solid methodology. We found that tracks can be operated by repairing isolated defects for more than ten years without running into technical and operational trouble, and even reducing budgets in this period. However, the long-term perspective financially shows the contrary: continuous through-going maintenance keeps track quality at a high level and provides the basis for a long service life.