Railway Track Machine Planning Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary factor that affects the tamping frequency of railway tracks?

Track geometry, including gradients and curvature (correct)

Presence of adjacent highways

Number of railway workers available

Cost of materials used

Which of the following best describes the general guideline for tamping frequency?

Every two years

Only when tracks show visible damage

One year and above (correct)

Less than six months

What should be done if the tamping of a track has bad formation?

Replace the entire track segment immediately

Initiate spot attention for more frequent tamping (correct)

Conduct tamping less frequently than normally required

Ignore it until the next scheduled check-up

Who is responsible for approving the frequency of tamping for different rail sections?

Chief Track Engineer (CTE) Signup and view all the answers

What local conditions can influence the requirement for tamping frequency?

Traffic density and drainage problems Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the overall control of track machines in a Zonal Railway?

Chief Engineer/Track Machines Signup and view all the answers

What is the frequency with which the Senior Divisional Engineer must send the requirement plan to the Chief Engineer/Track Machines?

Annually Signup and view all the answers

For how long is the requirement plan prepared starting from 1st April of the coming year?

18 months Signup and view all the answers

What does the annual program consist of?

Firm program for 12 months and tentative for 6 months Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is NOT taken into consideration when drawing the program for track machines?

Public opinion on railway services Signup and view all the answers

Who fixes the annual targets for each type of machine?

Railway Board Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is included in the considerations for the requirement plan?

Speed restrictions Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the focus areas when preparing deployment strategies for track machines?

Priorities for completion of projects Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum clean ballast cushion required on the main line before deploying tamping machines?

250 mm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following track geometry standards is crucial before deploying track machines?

Peak value of Twist should be 15 mm on 3.6 m Chord Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for directing the joint inspection of track before the deployment of track machines?

Sr.DEN Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured regarding the track before deploying tamping machines?

Fit for a speed of 30 kmph Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Dy.CE(C) in relation to track geometry certification?

To certify the track geometry after a joint inspection Signup and view all the answers

What tool should be used for recording achieved track parameters during lining/levelling?

Motorized trolleys Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT listed as a prerequisite for deploying track tamping machines?

Low ambient temperature Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there are deficiencies found during the joint inspection?

Attend to deficiencies before certification Signup and view all the answers

Why are the specified track geometry standards not considered safety tolerances?

They are prerequisites for better productivity Signup and view all the answers

What is required for proper recording of levels before deploying machines?

Accurate calculations of lift & slews values Signup and view all the answers

What does Actual Block Hours (ABH) represent?

The actual blocks granted in hours for machine work Signup and view all the answers

How is machine utilization expressed?

ABH/DBH expressed in % Signup and view all the answers

What is one condition for regular traffic blocks on a single line section?

One block of at least 4 hours or two blocks of 2-1/2 hours Signup and view all the answers

In case of a double line section, how many hours is a single spell allowed?

4 hours on either the Up or Down line daily Signup and view all the answers

What should be planned for construction projects and multiple lines?

Additional working hours and blocks Signup and view all the answers

What defines a mega block running into several days or weeks?

Major maintenance work with traffic conversion Signup and view all the answers

Which document or guideline influences the planning of special blocks?

Engineering and Operating JPOs from Railway Board Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended for the temporary conversion when conducting mega blocks?

Modifications in the signaling system Signup and view all the answers

What does the availability of track machine indicate?

The ratio of Actual Block Hours to Demand Block Hours expressed in % Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to ensure quality work during a major maintenance block?

Preparation of a detailed scheme based on requirement and local conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the total minimum time required for BCM (P&C) operations?

270 minutes Signup and view all the answers

How does the output of machines vary according to the content?

Output varies depending on machine age and track features. Signup and view all the answers

What is the ineffective time added for the second BCM in a group working scenario?

30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

For what operations is MPT used?

For both plain track and Points and Crossing. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following has the longest time requirement for ineffective operations?

BCM (P&C) Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the output is less than 90% of the normal output?

Output should be analyzed and corrective action taken. Signup and view all the answers

Which machine requires the least amount of time for ineffective operations?

DUO Signup and view all the answers

Which option represents the maximum output distance achievable with TEX?

1600 m Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for output compromise in BCM operations?

Conservative estimate of patches left between work locations. Signup and view all the answers

What standard unit of measure is used for track distance in the document?

Meters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors has the least influence on the frequency of tamping?

Type of track material used Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum recommended tamping frequency if all conditions are optimal?

Annually or 1 year and above Signup and view all the answers

In terms of track maintenance, which of the following scenarios would likely require a modification to the tamping frequency?

All of the above are relevant scenarios Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the TMS module in track maintenance?

To facilitate the adjustment of tamping frequency based on track conditions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is NOT typically used to establish tamping frequency?

Length of the railway line Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration of the firm annual program for track machine deployment?

12 months Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key factor in preparing the requirement plan for track machines?

Loco power availability Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT considered when drawing the program for track machine deployment?

Operational staff training Signup and view all the answers

What timeframe is tentatively planned for track machine deployment in the second year?

6 months Signup and view all the answers

Who is primarily responsible for drafting the deployment program for CTR/TSR?

Chief Engineer/Track Machines Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is used to determine the annual targets for track machines?

Decisions by the Railway Board Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect affects the effective availability of machines for deployment?

Slots for POH/IOH and major repairs Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for the effective utilization of track machines during deployment?

Priorities and targets for project completion Signup and view all the answers

What is the total ineffective time required for a single BCM (Plain) operation?

1 hour Signup and view all the answers

In the context of group working, how much additional ineffective time should be accounted for the third BCM?

30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which machine has the highest total time requirement for ineffective operations?

BCM (P&C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the effective distance achieved by a DUO during operations?

800 m Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following operations is the MPT primarily used for?

Spot attention for both plain track and Points and Crossing Signup and view all the answers

What determines the additional ineffective time when deploying multiple BCMs?

Number of machines in a group Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum expected output distance for the TEX machine?

1600 m Signup and view all the answers

What type of track does BCM (P&C) have an operational ineffective time for?

Points and Crossing Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect affects the output of track machines most significantly according to the guidelines?

Age and condition of machinery Signup and view all the answers

What's the total minimum time required for the operation of TRT?

240 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of examining the requirement of divisions and other agencies before issuing the deployment program?

To ensure efficient allocation and usage of machines Signup and view all the answers

What must be corrected if there is any deviation from the approved deployment program?

Deployment program at HQ and divisions Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT required to be taken by Divisions upon receiving the deployment plan?

Monitoring traffic blocks Signup and view all the answers

What is a condition for the expeditious movement of machines as arranged by Sr.DEN/Co?

Adherence to the final deployment program Signup and view all the answers

What does the deployment program include regarding timeframes?

A firm program for 12 months and a tentative program for 6 months Signup and view all the answers

Who is primarily responsible for issuing the final deployment program?

Chief Track Engineer Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a machine's arrival being delayed past the approved deployment schedule?

Approval from CE/TM is necessary for deviation Signup and view all the answers

What should be closely monitored once machines are deployed at a site?

The progress of work completed by machines Signup and view all the answers

What critical preparatory work is essential before machines arrive at a site according to the deployment program?

Finalization of contracts and development of base depots Signup and view all the answers

Which timeline is specified for divisions to inform changes to the draft deployment plan?

Within 15 days Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of establishing a minimum block duration of 6 hours on tracks?

To ensure effective and safe operation of track work Signup and view all the answers

In a multiple line section, what is a key reason for planning a pre-assured mega block of 6 hours?

To prevent accidents during track shifts of trackmen Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is NOT considered when determining the minimum duration of blocks for track machines?

Frequency of train services Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to the variation in minimum block duration requirements for different types of machines?

Specific time needed for various ineffective operations Signup and view all the answers

How is the ineffective time defined in the context of block duration?

Time not utilized effectively for production while machines are on the track Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of not adhering to minimum block durations during operations?

Compromise on track safety and maintenance quality Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario would most likely necessitate the cancellation of passenger trains?

Execution of mega blocks for track maintenance Signup and view all the answers

What identifies a mega block that lasts more than two weeks in scheduling?

Extended maintenance requirements due to previous failures Signup and view all the answers

For effective working using track machines, what criterion must be met regarding block durations?

They should provide adequate setup and winding up time Signup and view all the answers

What is typically the maximum number of mega blocks planned in a week on single/double line sections?

Two blocks depending on work requirements Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Planning

The Chief Engineer/Track Machines (CE/TM) in Zonal Railways oversees all track machine workings and deployments.
Divisions submit annual requirement plans for track machines to the CE/TM by the 5th of February.
These plans cover an 18-month period and encompass maintenance, renewal needs, and other relevant aspects.
The annual program includes a firm 12-month plan starting from April and a tentative 6-month plan for the following year.
Factors considered during planning:
- Base depot locations for machines
- Locomotive needs and availability
- Block requirements and availability
- Ballast needs and supply
- Speed restrictions
- Working seasons
- Machine output
- Machine availability (POH/IOH, repairs, and shifting)
- Project completion priorities
- Coordination with other departments (S&T, TRD)
- Any other factor impacting machine usage
Annual targets for each type of machine are established by the Railway Board in consultation with Zonal Railways.
- These targets are based on track maintenance and renewal needs.
Divisions must facilitate the movement of other railway's machines passing through their area.

Track Machine Deployment Pre-requisites on Construction Projects

Track geometry standards must be met before deploying machines on construction projects.
- Track laying standards should adhere to IRPWM Para 316 for gauge, joints, expansion gaps, and sleeper spacing.
- A minimum ballast cushion of 250mm for mainline and 150mm for yard lines should be ensured.
- Levels and versines should be recorded by trained personnel, and lift and slew values should be calculated for lining/leveling.
The track geometry for new works must meet the following standards:
- Peak value of unevenness: 15mm on a 3.6m chord
- Peak value of twist: 15mm on a 3.6m chord
- Peak value of alignment: 15mm on a 7.2m chord
These standards are prerequisites for machine deployment and ensure optimal productivity and utilization.
Small machines like off-track tampers can be used to achieve these standards.
Track geometry should be certified fit for a speed of 30 kph before tamping machines are deployed.
A joint inspection must be conducted by AEN(C) and AEN/XEN /TM on requests from Dy. CE(C) to confirm the track's suitability.

Track Machine Availability, Output and Time Allocations

The availability of track machines is influenced by several factors:
- Demanded Block Hours (DBH): This represents the number of days requested for block sections.
- Actual Block Hours (ABH): The actual number of block hours granted.
- Effective Block Hours/Scheduled Block Hours (EBH/SBH): This represents the percentage of time track machines are available, excluding downtime due to rest, holidays, maintenance, shifting, etc.
- Actual Block Hours/Demanded Block Hours (ABH/DBH): This represents the percentage of machine utilization.

Types of Track Maintenance Blocks

Track machines operate under various block types determined by maintenance requirements and traffic patterns.
Regular Traffic Blocks:
- Single-Line Section:
  - One block of at least 4 hours or two blocks of 2.5 hours is the standard.
  - Blocks of at least 2 hours are allowed only when 2.5-hour blocks are impossible.
- Double-Line Section:
  - One 4-hour block on the 'Up' or 'Dn' line daily.
  - Two 2.5-hour blocks on the 'Up' or 'Dn' line on alternate days (totaling 5 hours daily on one line).
Construction Projects and Multiple Lines:
- Longer blocks and additional working hours are planned for these projects.
Special Blocks:
- These are outlined in Engineering and Operating Joint Procedural Orders (JPOs) issued by the Railway Board.
- Mega Blocks:
  - Long blocks spanning days or weeks are used for major rehabilitation and maintenance of assets in specific double-line traffic sections.
  - One line is blocked temporarily, converting the double line into a single line.
  - This temporary conversion involves modifications to the signaling system.
  - This approach allows for expedited work completion and better quality.
  - Zonal Railways prepare detailed schemes for each section based on work requirements and local conditions.

Track Machine Output and Ineffective Time

Output (in km) refers to the amount of track worked on by track machines and varies based on machine type and block duration.
Ineffective Time:
- Refers to time spent on tasks outside of actual track maintenance.
- DUO: 2.5 hours (150 minutes) + 0.5 hours (30 minutes) = 800 meters
- CSM: 2.5 hours (150 minutes) + 0.5 hours (30 minutes) = 1200 meters
- TEX: 2.5 hours (150 minutes) + 0.5 hours (30 minutes) = 1600 meters
- UNIMAT: 2.5 hours (150 minutes) + 0.5 hours (30 minutes) = 1 turnout
- BCM (Plain): 3 hours (180 minutes) + 1 hour (60 minutes) = 200 meters
- BCM (P&C): 4.5 hours (270 minutes) + 3 hours (180 minutes) = 750 meters (turnout)
- SBCM: 2.3 hours (150 minutes) + 0.5 hours (30 minutes) = 400 meters
- TLE: 3 hours (180 minutes) + 0.75 hours (45 minutes) = 200 meters
- TRT: 4 hours (240 minutes) + 1.25 hours (75 minutes) = 400 meters
- RGM: 2 hours (120 minutes) + 0.75 hours (45 minutes) = 10-12 km
Notes:
- Turnout time for UNIMAT includes both mainline and turnout connection and disconnection for S&T.
- The RGM output depends on the length of curves.
- For BCM (P&C) the ineffective time includes movement, preparatory works, and S&T.
- Output can vary depending on machine age and track features.
- If the output falls below 90% of the normal level, the cause should be investigated and rectified.
- MPT is used for spot attention on both plain track and points and crossings.
- Group working can reduce overall block requirements.
Group Working (BCM):
- Can be deployed in groups for longer blocks (4 hours or more).
- The trailing machines will experience a time loss of roughly 30 minutes.
- Output may also be reduced due to conservative estimations of the gaps between machine work locations.
- The ineffective time for BCM group working will be increased by 30 minutes for the second machine and so on.
Group Working (Tamping Machines):
- Tamping machines can also be deployed in groups to enhance efficiency.

Tamping Frequency

The frequency of tamping (re-packing track ballast) is determined by various factors:
- Traffic density (GMT)
- Axle loads
- Maximum permissible train speed
- Track geometry (gradients, curvature)
- Track structures and condition of components
- Depth of ballast cushion
- Drainage characteristics
- Formation type (embankment, cutting)
- Soil type
- Formation condition and stability
- Climate conditions (rainfall, snowfall)
- Local conditions (built-up areas, tress passing, drainage issues)
- Previous tamping mode (smoothening or design mode)
Zonal Railways determine the tamping frequency, which typically is at least once a year.
- Spot attention is required for tracks with problematic formation and other factors demanding more frequent tamping.
The TMS module should be able to track these spot attentions.
The tamping frequency needs to be reviewed when any of these factors get modified.

Track Machine Deployment Planning

Track machine deployment in a Zonal Railway is overseen by the CE/TM.
Divisions submit annual requirements for track machines to CE/TM by February 5th, focusing on maintenance and renewal needs.
The CE/TM, in consultation with the Zonal HQ CTE, prepares an 18-month deployment program, including 12 months of firm planning and 6 months of tentative.
The annual program considers base depots, loco availability, block requirements, ballast needs, speed restrictions, working seasons, machine output, POH/IOH, project priorities, S&T/TRD coordination, and other relevant factors.
Annual track machine targets are set by the Railway Board in collaboration with Zonal Railways, taking into account initial track maintenance requirements, track renewal goals, machine availability, traffic block availability, past machine productivity, and machine age.
Divisions and construction units receive the deployment plan and initiate preparatory works, such as depot development, contract finalization, block arrangements, material procurement, ballast collection, and staff accommodation.
Once machines arrive, their deployment follows the approved program, with progress monitored and deviations requiring approval from CTE or CE/TM.
Sr.DEN/Co is responsible for the timely movement of machines within their division, while Sr.DEN/DEN of the section ensures preparedness for machine arrival.

Minimum Block Durations

Track machine deployment is optimized through minimum block durations, calculated based on setup/winding time, ineffective hours, and expected output.
Minimum block durations vary by machine type, with ineffective time reflecting factors like movement, preparatory works, and S&T works.
Group working of BCMs can be adopted to reduce block requirements, but ineffective time increases for trailing machines due to setup and work gaps.
Tamping machines can also be deployed in groups to optimize block utilization.