The combined effects of train cyclic loading, track irregularities, and the longitudinal non-uniformity characteristics of ballasted tracks will lead to the occurrence of uneven ballast settlement. At the same time, the deterioration of the dynamic performance will accelerate the development of ballast settlement. The dynamic cumulative effect of ballast settlement brings huge challenges to the operation maintenance and scientific management of ballasted tracks.
This research model consists of three main parts: the train–ballasted track system dynamic model, the UIUC model, and the improved Newton iteration method considering sleeper hanging. This study analyzed the evolution of ballast settlement and the dynamic performance of the train–railway track system with different moisture contents and aging. In particular, it focused on the influence of dynamic cumulative effects and sleeper voiding on the development pattern of ballast settlement.
The numerical analysis result indicated that the DCE (Dynamic Cumulative Effect) of ballast settlement aggravate the deterioration of ballast settlement and the dynamic performance of the TBT system; The higher the ballast moisture content and the longer the operation time, the more obvious this effect will be. For ballasts with a better condition than AB L30, the influence of ballast settlement and DCE on the dynamic performance of TBT can be disregarded. On the contrary, for ballasts with a worse condition than AB L30, the dynamic response of ballasted track will increase by 30%, and the reduction rate of wheel load will increase by more than double. It is necessary to pay attention to monitoring the areas with significant dynamic responses of the TBT system (such as rail welds, bridge-subgrade transition sections, etc.).
It is worth noting that when considering DCE, multiple times TBT system solutions are carried out, which will significantly increase the computational cost. When the ballast settlement is small, in order to save calculation costs, the DCE of the ballast settlement can be disregarded, and the UIUC model can be directly used to predict the ballast settlement.
The work entitled “Dynamic cumulative effect of ballast settlement considering sleeper void using 3D train–ballasted track model” was published in Journal of Railway Science and Technology (published on Mar. 3, 2026).
DOI：10.1016/j.jrst.2026.03.001