Ballast & Sub-Ballast Reinforcement

RAILWAY "BALLAST & SUB-BALLAST REINFORCEMENT"

Reinforce ballast and sub-ballast for longer-lasting track performance

Ballast and Sub-Ballast degradation is one of the leading causes of track deterioration and costly maintenance. BaseLok Rail Geogrid, FabGrid, and BaseLok GeoCell products are typically installed at the interface of the subgrade and the sub-ballast. BaseLok products confine the sub-ballast material effectively spreading the load of the railway system. Reinforcing the sub-ballast provides a solid foundation for the ballast. Utilizing BaseLok products can reduce sub-ballast thicknesses and extend the maintenance cycle of the railway.

BaseLok Railway Reinforcement Works

Railway ballast and sub-ballast perform a critical structural function by supporting the ties and rail and distributing loads from the rolling stock to the underlying subgrade. Research has shown that subgrade stresses are significantly reduced when using BaseLok products at the subgrade level. This reduction in vertical stress effectively increases the allowable bearing capacity. With a higher effective allowable bearing capacity, the combined ballast and sub-ballast thickness can be reduced saving time and money while maintaining the integrity of the railway.

For new track construction, BaseLok products can significantly reduce the required sub-ballast thickness, lowering material volumes and construction costs. Geogrids and geocells are both recognized by AREMA as effective tools for ballast and subballast reinforcement. BaseLok geogrids can be placed directly over weak or saturated subgrades, eliminating the need for expensive subgrade excavation and replacement or chemical stabilization.