For more than two decades, Tensar Geogrids have successfully stabilized ballast and sub-ballast layers under a wide range of soil and loading conditions – from light rail to heavy Class 1 rail structures. Tensar’s technology has been proven to substantially reduce track maintenance, being the subject of extensive independent research and development and approved by AREMA, Network Rail in the UK and National Rail Authorities worldwide. AREMA has recognized the value of geogrid technology for trackbed stabilization by including it in its Manual for Railway Engineering (Chapter 1, Part 10, Section 10.6). So, how do geogrids work to improve track structures?
Want to learn more? We offer a one hour webinar that will introduce you to using geogrid for mechanical stabilization of ballast and sub-ballast in rail track structures. Those who watch are eligible for 1 PDH credit after the completion of the course. Click here to watch it now.
TriAx Geogrid has the ability to confine aggregate particles, significantly reducing lateral spreading of granular particles, a major cause of ballast and sub-ballast settlement. This video shows a side-by-side comparison demonstrating how TriAx Geogrid (on the right) works to combat settlement compared to an unstabilized track (on the left.)
Penn State University presented research findings on how TriAx Geogrid influenced ballast movement, rotation and displacement at the annual Transportation Research Board (TRB) meeting in 2016. Watch a video on the findings here.
Read about additional research and product information in our SpectraRail Brochure.
SpectraRail Software is a comprehensive, systems-based software suite that offers the full benefits of Tensar’s knowledge and experience in track design. The software was developed specifically to evaluate and compare designs for both unstabilized and mechanically stabilized trackbeds. Pavement sections for intermodal facilities can also be
developed using our state-of-the-art design software.These applications incorporate Tensar® TriAx® Geogrids, key components of the Spectra® Rail System.
Geotechs will appreciate the comprehensive cost analysis tool for each scenario as well as the estimates on track settlement for a specific level of performance. This software is available free of charge following the completion of a free training module delivered by a Tensar specialist. Fill out the form to request your copy.
In addition to offering design software, Tensar can provide comprehensive design and site assistance for every stage of a Spectra Rail System project. Given a specific set of soil and proposed loading conditions, a full design section can be developed by Tensar to include a
trackbed section in full compliance with AREMA guidelines.
Tensar Geogrids have provided stabilization solutions for the pavement structures at many intermodal facilities. Tensar Geogrids at intermodal facilities have been used to:
Project Examples: Click links below to learn more
A geogrid is a geosynthetic material used to stabilize soil. Today, more designers are choosing to implement geogrids to improve the performance of the aggregate within structures to combat increasing material costs and withstand heavy traffic loads.
How do geogrids work? Geogrids have openings, called apertures, which allow aggregate to strike through and provide confinement and interlock. As the aggregate layer stiffens, the load distribution over the underlying ballast or sub-ballast is enhanced, increasing its effective bearing capacity. Shear forces imposed within the aggregate layer as a result of trains passing are thereby partially transferred into the geogrid. Geogrids can improve the long-term performance of tracks by minimizing aggregate movement and maintaining modulus values.
From light rail to heavy Class 1 rail structures, Tensar's Geogrid technology has provided significant cost savings and improved performance on projects across the country.
The Geopier GeoSpikeSM system is a cost effective method for strengthening weak railroad track subgrades. This system is installed without removing railroad tracks, ties, or ballast. Geospike elements are driven to design depths, then aggregate is backfilled within the pre-manufactured shell. Rail owners, contractors, and designers use the Geopier GeoSpike system to improve the roadbed.
Project Example: Canadian National St. Clair Subdivision
Dynamic deflections of the railway reduced by 60% without removing the track, ties or ballast. Click the image to read more about the project.
Geopier ground improvement is also used to cost-effectively stabilize shallow slides along existing soil embankments by using the Geopier SRT® system. The patented SRT Plate Pile™ method is well suited to stabilize slides or steep slopes that do not meet required stability criteria, such as slope inclination between 17 degrees (3:1) to 45 degrees (1:1), slides up to 15 feet thick, all soil types (with the exception of very loose to loose sand) overlying an underlying competent layer into which the Plate Piles penetrate and Plate Piles may be installed into soft rock (e.g. siltstone, claystone, mudstone, weathered shale, etc.).
Project Example: Norfolk Southern Embankment Slope
Slope repair solution with a highly accelerated response time and construction schedule
At Tensar International, finding solutions that lower construction costs and bring added value is our top priority. That’s why we put our experts to work, showing engineers and contractors around the world how to build smarter infrastructure using geogrid technology. With decades of research and real-world experience under our belt, our geogrid solutions bring significant cost and time savings across a wide range of civil applications like:
Soil Stabilization | Pavement Optimization | Foundations
Working Platforms | Walls and Slopes
We're proud to offer state-of-the-art design solutions – specialty solutions based on advanced technologies proven since 1982. Tested in the most challenging conditions, these comprehensive solutions save time, resources and money. They’ve become the standard by which others are measured.
ESALs of Research and Still Counting...
years experience
distributors worldwide
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STABILITY. LONGEVITY. EXPERTISE.
Tensar International is the inventor of geogrid and provides full-service solutions for customers around the world. Our products are backed by extensive research, and our highly qualified team of engineers and scientists delivers design and construction support unequaled in our industry. We help engineers, contractors and owners use geogrid to achieve more cost-effective, reliable solutions for pavement construction, soil stabilization, earth reinforcement, and other site development challenges.