Comparison of interaction study between the double channel and Y-shaped railway sleeper tracks on steel girder railway bridge

Since the 19th century, the evolution of railway infrastructure has been vital to industrial and economic growth, with railway sleepers being crucial components for track stability and performance. This study investigates the interaction between double-channel and Y-shaped sleeper tracks on a non-ballasted steel girder railway bridge in Ankali, Maharashtra, India. Previous research work is validated by the use of a finite element model (FEM) in MIDAS Civil software against Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) data. The study examines three moving load scenarios and four lateral load cases (LLCs) based on Indian Railways Bridge Rules. Influence line analysis is performed to determine the maximum response of the bridge under varying loads, ensuring precise evaluation of structural behaviour. Dynamic effects are considered by applying a Coefficient of Dynamic Augment (CDA) to the live load that generates maximum stresses and deflection. The Results show that Y-shaped sleepers significantly enhance structural performance in vertical and lateral direction compared to conventional double-channel sleepers. The Y-shaped configuration increases track rigidity, reducing average values of bridge vertical deflection by 2.36% and stress in the main girders by 1.79%, while rail stress is decreased by 33.23%. In addition, alternating periodic stiffness offers lateral stability, reducing average lateral deflection by 12.43% and stress in the sleepers by 48.20%. All interaction variables comply with established standard provisions, indicating that Y-shaped sleeper tracks can improve the structural stability of bridges and tracks in new construction projects.