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.
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.
Port of Long Beach Intermodal: Sub-ballast extends track performance an estimated 20 years.
Class 1 track maintenance extended from weekly to yearly; speed restrictions lifted.
TriAx solution eliminates over-excavation and saves time compared to chemical stabilization.
Tensar solution reduces sub-ballast by four inches and avoided moving 900 ft of utilities.
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
