Abstract
This paper is devoted to the continuation of the research on how to apply a tamping machine in the CWR (Continues Welded Rail) track diagnostic system. The aim of this study is to determine the lateral resistance in the track structure. Lateral resistance exemplifies a fundamental parameter related to the safety issues in railway transport. The danger results from a possibility of loosing stability of the CWR structure, which could be caused by axial (thermal) forces in rails. What is more, the level of lateral resistance has a significant influence on the development of geometrical imperfections process in the track structure. Therefore, it is of great interest to develop effective diagnostic methods that could determine the lateral resistance in exploited railroads. This paper presents the concept of conducting this kind of research during geometrical regulation process in the track structure using a tamping machine. The discussed method aims at recording continuously the track dislocation value as well as the external force which the tamping machine tends to dislocate the structure with. Acquired time-signals enable the estimation of phenomenon based on the lateral resistance distribution in the length of studied routes. The results of conducted experiments have confirmed the thesis about the possibility to use a tamping machine in order to diagnose the lateral resistance in the track structure. Further directions of the research have been formulated in that field around specifying a required set of measurement equipment, along with a method to archive and interpret measured time signals.