EN 13145:2001/FprA1

Overview

EN 13145:2001/FprA1 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies requirements for wood sleepers and bearers used in railway track construction. The standard establishes wood species, quality criteria, origin, manufacturing conditions, forms, dimensions, and tolerances. It also addresses the durability and preservation methods necessary to ensure long-lasting performance of wooden track components. However, it excludes specific finishing processes that may be requested by customers and does not cover other types of track timbers.

This standard supports compliance with essential requirements of the EU Directive 2008/57/EC regarding the interoperability and safety of railway infrastructure across Europe. It provides a harmonized framework for manufacturers and railway operators to ensure the quality and reliability of wood sleepers and bearers in track systems.

Key Topics

• Wood Species and Quality Requirements
  Defines acceptable wood types suitable for railway track application, ensuring consistent mechanical and durability properties.

• Manufacturing Conditions
  Specifies production processes to maintain the structural integrity and conformity of sleepers and bearers.

• Forms, Dimensions, and Tolerances
  Details nominal sizes and acceptable deviations to guarantee proper fitting and performance in track assemblies.

• Durability and Preservation
  Addresses treatment and preservation methods such as creosote application, conforming to regulatory restrictions (e.g., REACH), to enhance resistance against environmental exposure and biological decay.

• Conformity Assessment
  Provides criteria for verifying compliance, including quality control during production and geometric assessments of finished products.

• Relationship with EU Regulations
  Aligns with EU Directive 2008/57/EC – the interoperability directive for the trans-European rail system – facilitating mutual recognition across member states.

Applications

EN 13145:2001/FprA1 applies specifically to:

• Railway Track Construction
  Wood sleepers and bearers installed as foundational track components to support rails and distribute loads.

• Maintenance and Replacement Projects
  Ensures that replacement sleepers meet standardized criteria for compatibility and performance, aiding track longevity and safety.

• Rail Infrastructure Design
  Assists engineers and planners in selecting appropriate wooden components that conform to European interoperability and safety standards.

• Manufacturing and Quality Assurance
  Guides timber and railway component producers in implementing best practices and meeting legal requirements for wood sleepers aimed at European markets.

Related Standards

• EU Directive 2008/57/EC
  Defines essential requirements for railway interoperability, which EN 13145 supports specifically for infrastructure components with wood sleepers and bearers.

• CEN/TC 256 Technical Committee Standards
  EN 13145 fits within the suite of standards developed by CEN/TC 256 focusing on various railway applications and components.

• ISO and Other CEN Wood Standards
  May complement EN 13145 for broader contexts related to wood quality and timber processing.

• Environmental and Chemical Safety Regulations (REACH Regulation EC 1907/2006)
  Addresses the health and environmental considerations for wood preservative substances used in treatment processes covered by the standard.

Keywords: EN 13145, wood sleepers, timber bearers, railway track, European standard, railway infrastructure, timber preservation, railway interoperability, railway track components, wood species railway, durability of railway sleepers, railway track manufacturing standards.