SIST EN 15273-3:2025
(Main)Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure
Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure
This document:
- lists the formulae and the associated rules needed to calculate the infrastructure gauge;
- lists the various phenomena to be taken into account to determine the infrastructure gauge;
- defines a methodology that may be used to calculate the various profiles from these phenomena;
- lists the rules to determine the distance between the track centres;
- lists the rules to be complied with when building the platforms;
- lists the rules to determine the pantograph gauge;
- provides recommendations for the various profiles needed to install, verify and maintain infrastructure;
and is applicable for various track gauges.
This document is applicable to heavy rail networks using various track gauges. Other vehicles and networks are outside the scope of this document, but the rules may be applied to them with some adjustments and agreement of the share of responsibility between rolling stock and infrastructure.
This document is not applicable to the gauges “S” and “T” for track gauge 1 520 mm.
Bahnanwendungen- Begrenzungslinien - Teil 3: Infrastruktur
Dieses Dokument:
- listet die Gleichungen und die zugehörigen Regeln, die zur Berechnung der Infrastrukturbegrenzungslinie erforderlich sind, auf;
- listet die verschiedenen Einflussgrößen auf, die bei der Festlegung der jeweiligen Infrastrukturbegrenzungslinie zu berücksichtigen sind;
- definiert eine Methode, mit der — ausgehend von den jeweiligen Einflüssen — die verschiedenen Lichtraumprofile berechnet werden können;
- listet Regeln für die Festlegung des Gleismittenabstands auf;
- listet Regeln auf; die bei der Anordnung der Bahnsteige zu beachten sind;
- listet Regeln für die Bestimmung der Begrenzungslinie für Stromabnehmer auf;
- gibt Empfehlungen für die verschiedenen Profile, die für die Installation, Überprüfung und Wartung der Infrastruktur erforderlich sind;
und ist bei unterschiedlichen Spurweiten anwendbar.
Dieses Dokument ist anwendbar für Vollbahnnetze, die verschiedene Spurweiten verwenden. Andere Fahrzeuge und Schienennetze fallen nicht in den Anwendungsbereich dieses Dokuments, aber die Regeln können, mit einigen Anpassungen und einer Vereinbarung über die Aufteilung der Verantwortung zwischen Fahrzeugen und Infrastruktur, auf sie angewendet werden.
Dieses Dokument ist nicht anwendbar auf die Begrenzungslinien „S“ und „T“ für die Spurweite 1 520 mm.
Applications ferroviaires - Gabarits - Partie 3 : Infrastructure
Le présent document :
- donne les formules et les règles associées nécessaires pour calculer le gabarit de l'infrastructure ;
- donne les différents phénomènes à considérer pour déterminer le gabarit d'infrastructure ;
- définit une méthodologie qui peut être utilisée pour calculer les différents contours, à partir de ces phénomènes ;
- donne les règles pour déterminer l'entraxe ;
- donne les règles à respecter lors de l'implantation des quais ;
- donne les règles pour déterminer le gabarit du pantographe ;
- fournit des recommandations concernant les différents contours nécessaires pour l'implantation, la vérification et l'entretien de l'infrastructure ;
et est applicable aux différents écartements de voie.
Le présent document s'applique aux réseaux ferroviaires conventionnels employant divers écartements de voie. Les autres types de véhicules et de réseaux ne relèvent pas du domaine d'application du présent document, mais les règles de ce dernier peuvent s'y appliquer, en apportant quelques ajustements et en définissant le partage des responsabilités entre les organismes chargés du matériel roulant et de l'infrastructure.
Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux gabarits S et T pour l'écartement de voie 1 520 mm.
Železniške naprave - Profili - 3. del: Infrastruktura
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Public Enquiry End Date
- 14-May-2023
- Publication Date
- 22-Oct-2025
- Technical Committee
- IŽNP - Reilway applications
- Current Stage
- 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
- Start Date
- 22-Oct-2025
- Due Date
- 27-Dec-2025
- Completion Date
- 23-Oct-2025
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2025
Overview
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 - "Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure" is the CEN-based Slovenian adoption that defines the rules, formulae and methodology for calculating and managing the infrastructure gauge on heavy rail networks. It lists the phenomena to consider, methods to derive infrastructure profiles, rules for distance between track centres, platform installation requirements, and both mechanical and electrical pantograph gauge determination. The standard applies to various track gauges (except gauge “S” and “T” for 1 520 mm) and is intended for heavy rail; application to other vehicle types requires agreement on responsibility split between rolling stock and infrastructure.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Gauge calculation methods: Defines and compares kinematic, dynamic and static gauging approaches and their use for infrastructure design and verification.
- Reference profiles & formulae: Provides the reference profiles, symbols, formulae and rules needed to calculate infrastructure clearance envelopes.
- Allowances and adjustments: Covers lateral widening, vertical adjustments and additional allowances required for safe clearance.
- Distance between track centres: Rules and parameters to determine safe spacing for adjacent tracks, including effects of track elements and variable layouts.
- Pantograph gauging: Mechanical and electrical pantograph gauges, including free-passage envelopes and recommendations for overhead contact lines.
- Platforms and nearby installations: Installation rules for platform edges, track-mounted equipment proximity, and verification/maintenance guidance.
- Gauging types & verification: Absolute and comparative gauging principles, measurement data/tolerances, and management principles for ongoing verification and maintenance.
- Special cases: Guidance on turnouts, tilting trains, ferries, temporary structures and items in close proximity to tracks.
- Informative annexes: Calculation examples, recommended allowance values, maintenance guidelines and measurement accuracy notes.
Practical applications and target users
- Infrastructure engineers & designers - to size clearances, define track spacing and design platforms and overhead equipment.
- Rail operators & network managers - for compatibility assessments, infrastructure verification and maintenance planning.
- Rolling stock engineers - to understand infrastructure envelopes when assessing vehicle clearance compatibility.
- Safety assessors & certification bodies - to verify compliance with gauging and clearance requirements.
- Survey and measurement teams - for implementing absolute and comparative gauging surveys and maintaining measurement quality.
Keywords: SIST EN 15273-3:2025, railway gauges, infrastructure gauge calculation, pantograph gauge, distance between track centres, gauge verification and maintenance, heavy rail networks.
Related standards
- EN 15273 series (other parts covering rolling stock and defined gauging) and national CEN member standards; refer to your national standards body (SIST/CEN) for full cross-references and legal status.
Frequently Asked Questions
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 is a standard published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure". This standard covers: This document: - lists the formulae and the associated rules needed to calculate the infrastructure gauge; - lists the various phenomena to be taken into account to determine the infrastructure gauge; - defines a methodology that may be used to calculate the various profiles from these phenomena; - lists the rules to determine the distance between the track centres; - lists the rules to be complied with when building the platforms; - lists the rules to determine the pantograph gauge; - provides recommendations for the various profiles needed to install, verify and maintain infrastructure; and is applicable for various track gauges. This document is applicable to heavy rail networks using various track gauges. Other vehicles and networks are outside the scope of this document, but the rules may be applied to them with some adjustments and agreement of the share of responsibility between rolling stock and infrastructure. This document is not applicable to the gauges “S” and “T” for track gauge 1 520 mm.
This document: - lists the formulae and the associated rules needed to calculate the infrastructure gauge; - lists the various phenomena to be taken into account to determine the infrastructure gauge; - defines a methodology that may be used to calculate the various profiles from these phenomena; - lists the rules to determine the distance between the track centres; - lists the rules to be complied with when building the platforms; - lists the rules to determine the pantograph gauge; - provides recommendations for the various profiles needed to install, verify and maintain infrastructure; and is applicable for various track gauges. This document is applicable to heavy rail networks using various track gauges. Other vehicles and networks are outside the scope of this document, but the rules may be applied to them with some adjustments and agreement of the share of responsibility between rolling stock and infrastructure. This document is not applicable to the gauges “S” and “T” for track gauge 1 520 mm.
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 45.020 - Railway engineering in general; 45.060.01 - Railway rolling stock in general. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to SIST EN 15273-3:2013+A1:2017. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2016/797/EU; Standardization Mandates: M/483, M/591. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
You can purchase SIST EN 15273-3:2025 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of SIST standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-december-2025
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 15273-3:2013+A1:2017
Železniške naprave - Profili - 3. del: Infrastruktura
Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure
Bahnanwendungen- Begrenzungslinien - Teil 3: Infrastruktur
Applications ferroviaires - Gabarits - Partie 3 : Infrastructure
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 15273-3:2025
ICS:
45.060.01 Železniška vozila na splošno Railway rolling stock in
general
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EN 15273-3
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
October 2025
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 45.020; 45.060.01 Supersedes EN 15273-3:2013+A1:2016
English Version
Railway applications - Gauges - Part 3: Infrastructure
Applications ferroviaires - Gabarits - Partie 3 : Bahnanwendungen - Begrenzungslinien - Teil 3:
Infrastructure Infrastruktur
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 16 June 2025.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2025 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 15273-3:2025 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 5
Introduction . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 Symbols and abbreviations . 9
5 Defined gauging . 9
5.1 General . 9
5.1.1 Introduction . 9
5.1.2 Gauging methods . 9
5.1.3 Infrastructure gauge types .10
5.1.4 Uniform gauge .10
5.1.5 Choice of gauge .10
5.2 General information on all the gauge calculation methods .11
5.2.1 The reference profile and its associated rules .11
5.2.2 Lateral gauge widening .11
5.2.3 Vertical adjustment .14
5.2.4 Additional allowances .20
5.3 Kinematic gauging method .20
5.3.1 General .20
5.3.2 Infrastructure gauge .20
5.4 Dynamic gauging method .25
5.4.1 General .25
5.4.2 Infrastructure gauge .25
5.5 Static gauging method .28
5.5.1 General .28
5.5.2 Infrastructure gauge .28
5.6 Distance between track centres .31
5.6.1 Introduction .31
5.6.2 Parameters to take into account when determining the distance between track
centres .33
5.6.3 Determination of the distance between track centres .35
5.7 Elements of variable layout .39
5.7.1 Introduction .39
5.7.2 Layout transition .40
5.7.3 Running on switches and crossings .45
5.8 Determination of the free passage gauge of the pantograph .47
5.8.1 General .47
5.8.2 Mechanical pantograph gauge for the kinematic gauging method .50
5.8.3 Electrical pantograph gauge for the kinematic gauging method .54
5.8.4 Mechanical pantograph gauge for the dynamic gauging method .55
5.8.5 Electrical pantograph gauge for the dynamic gauging method .56
5.9 Overhead contact line .56
5.10 Items intended to be in close proximity .56
5.10.1 Rules for installation of platform edges . 56
5.10.2 Track miscellaneous track equipment . 62
5.11 Guide for determination of a new gauge from an existing infrastructure . 63
5.12 Tilting trains . 63
5.13 Ferries . 63
5.14 Verification and maintenance of the gauge . 63
5.14.1 Infrastructure gauges . 63
5.14.2 Distance between track centres . 64
6 Absolute and comparative gauging . 64
6.1 Absolute gauging . 64
6.1.1 General . 64
6.1.2 Infrastructure data requirements . 65
6.1.3 Infrastructure tolerances . 67
6.1.4 Infrastructure calculations . 69
6.1.5 Application rules . 71
6.2 Comparative gauging . 72
6.3 Absolute gauges . 73
6.4 Compatibility information. 73
6.5 Items intended to be in close proximity . 73
6.5.1 General . 73
6.5.2 Control, command and signalling equipment . 74
6.5.3 Active check rails . 75
6.5.4 Planking of level crossings . 75
6.5.5 Conductor rails . 75
6.5.6 Rail brakes . 75
6.6 Platforms . 75
6.7 Pantograph Gauging . 75
6.7.1 General . 75
6.7.2 Pantograph gauges . 76
6.7.3 Benchmark pantograph sway values . 76
6.7.4 Pantograph gauging using pantograph swept envelopes . 76
6.8 Switch and crossings . 77
6.9 Tilting trains . 77
6.10 Infrastructure measurement . 77
6.10.1 Measurement data. 77
6.10.2 Survey equipment . 77
6.10.3 Measurement accuracy 𝑻𝑻𝑻𝑻𝑻𝑻 . 78
6.10.4 Survey quality . 78
6.11 Gauging management principles . 78
6.12 Fixed installations mounted in proximity of the tracks . 79
6.13 Temporary structures . 80
Annex A (informative) Recommended values for calculation of the allowances in defined and
absolute gauging . 81
Annex B (informative) Defined gauging – lower parts . 84
B.1 General . 84
B.2 Lower part of GI2 – Generally applicable . 84
B.3 Lower part of GI1 – Tracks for rail brake equipment . 85
B.4 Lower parts for “rolling” roads – GI3 . 88
Annex C (informative) Determination of reference vehicle characteristics for defined
gauging .90
C.1 Introduction .90
C.2 Methodology .90
C.3 Calculation example .91
Annex D (informative) Gauge maintenance guideline for defined gauging .97
D.1 Introduction .97
D.2 Choice of gauge .97
D.3 Installation rules .97
D.4 Managing and checking of structures .98
D.5 Effect of track maintenance .99
D.6 Personnel training .99
Annex E (informative) Calculation example for determination of the gauge in a turnout for
defined gauging . 100
E.1 Introduction . 100
E.2 Methodology . 101
E.3 Gauge widening . 102
E.4 The quasi-static effect. 103
E.5 Gauge width at a turnout . 103
Annex F (informative) Tilting trains . 106
F.1 General . 106
F.2 Transition curve . 107
F.3 Degraded modes . 107
Annex G (informative) Uniform gauge . 108
G.1 General . 108
G.2 GU1 . 108
G.3 GU2 . 110
G.4 GUC . 112
Annex H (informative) A-deviations. 114
Bibliography . 115
European foreword
This document (EN 15273-3:2025) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 256 “Railway
Applications”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by April 2026, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by April 2026.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document is one of the series EN 15273, Railway applications — Gauges as listed below:
— EN 15273-1:2025, General — Common rules for rolling stock and infrastructure gives the general
explanations of gauging and defines the sharing of the space between rolling stock and
infrastructure;
— EN 15273-2:2025, Rolling stock gives the rules for dimensioning vehicles;
— EN 15273-3:2025, Infrastructure gives the rules for positioning the infrastructure;
— EN 15273-4:2025, Catalogue of defined gauges includes a non-exhaustive list of reference profiles
and parameters to be used by infrastructure and rolling stock;
— CEN/TR 15273-5:2025, Background, explanation and worked examples.
This document supersedes EN 15273-3:2013+A1:2016.
In comparison with the previous edition, the following technical modifications have been made:
— the series was fully restructured, from three parts to five parts;
— Clause 3 and Clause 4 now refer to EN 15273-1:2025 where all terms and symbols are defined;
— reorganization of clauses from previous editions;
— creation of a new Clause 6 for absolute and comparative gauging process;
— all worked examples moved into the new CEN/TR 15273-5:2025;
— Table B.1 moved into the informative Annex A;
— all reference profiles and basics data from normative Annex C and normative Annex D moved into
the new EN 15273-4:2025;
— normative Annex F moved into informative Annex C;
— informative Annex H moved into informative Annex D;
— creation of a new informative Annex F about tilting trains.
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland,
Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and the United
Kingdom.
Introduction
The aim of this series EN 15273 is to define the rules for the calculation and verification of the dimensions
of rolling stock and infrastructure from a gauging perspective.
This series EN 15273 sets out gauging processes taking into account the relative movements between
rolling stock and infrastructure as well as the necessary margins or clearances.
parts:
— Part 1: General — Common rules for rolling stock and infrastructure;
— Part 2: Rolling stock;
— Part 4: Catalogue of defined gauges;
— Part 5: Background, explanation and worked examples.
1 Scope
This document:
— lists the formulae and the associated rules needed to calculate the infrastructure gauge;
— lists the various phenomena to be taken into account to determine the infrastructure gauge;
— defines a methodology that may be used to calculate the various profiles from these phenomena;
— lists the rules to determine the distance between the track centres;
— lists the rules to be complied with when building the platforms;
— lists the rules to determine the pantograph gauge;
— provides recommendations for the various profiles needed to install, verify and maintain
infrastructure;
and is applicable for various track gauges.
This document is applicable to heavy rail networks using various track gauges. Other vehicles and
networks are outside the scope of this document, but the rules may be applied to them with some
adjustments and agreement of the share of responsibility between rolling stock and infrastructure.
This document is not applicable to the gauges “S” and “T” for track gauge 1 520 mm.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 13232-1:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 1:
Definitions
EN 13232-2:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 2:
Requirements for geometric design
EN 13232-3:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 3:
Requirements for wheel/rail interaction
EN 13232-4:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 4:
Actuation, locking and detection
EN 13232-5:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 5:
Switches
EN 13232-6:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 6:
Fixed common and obtuse crossings
EN 13232-7:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 7:
Crossings with moveable parts
EN 13232-8:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 8:
Expansion devices
EN 13232-9:2023, Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings for Vignole rails — Part 9:
Layouts
EN 15273-1:2025, Railway applications — Gauges — Part 1: General – Common rules for Infrastructure
and rolling stock
EN 15273-2:2025, Railway Applications — Gauges — Part 2: Rolling stock
EN 15273-4:2025, Railway Applications — Gauges — Part 4: Catalogue of defined gauges
EN 50119:2020, Railway applications — Fixed installations - Electric traction overhead contact lines
EN 50367:2020 , Railway applications — Fixed installations and rolling stock — Criteria to achieve
technical compatibility between pantographs and overhead contact line
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 15273-1:2025 apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp/
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
4 Symbols and abbreviations
For the purposes of this document, the symbols and abbreviations given in EN 15273-1:2025 apply.
5 Defined gauging
5.1 General
5.1.1 Introduction
For defined gauging, the infrastructure is defined on the basis of a reference profile and its associated
rules (see EN 15273-1:2025, EN 15273-4:2025 and 5.2.1) that form an agreement between the
Infrastructure Manager and the Railway Undertaking and are therefore inseparable.
This agreement dictates how the various possible displacements of a vehicle on the track are distributed
and taken into account.
5.1.2 Gauging methods
There are various calculation methods; more details are given in EN 15273-1:2025. It is essential to
specify the method used:
— the kinematic method;
— the dynamic method;
— the static method.
Document impacted by EN 50367:2020/A1:2022 and EN 50367:2020/A2:2025.
5.1.3 Infrastructure gauge types
For each reference profile, listed in EN 15273-4:2025, there are different infrastructure gauge types
depending on the required application:
— the infrastructure verification limit gauge only takes into account gauge widening and mandatory
allowances that ensure safe operations of traffic after on-site measurements are checked.
Considering this type of gauge only represents the current infrastructure condition it can be applied
for a short time period which is decided by the Infrastructure Manager. Effects that changes the gauge
after these measurements (e.g., wear of rail, maintenance operations) are not taken into account;
— the infrastructure installation limit gauge takes into account the infrastructure verification limit
gauge and all the displacements and wear that may occur between two maintenance periods by
means of an infrastructure maintenance allowance. Fitting this gauge means that clearance is
maintained between the various maintenance and checking operations;
— the infrastructure installation nominal gauge takes into account the infrastructure installation limit
gauge and additional infrastructure allowances. This gauge means that clearance is maintained in
practically all conditions and allows more possible uses.
5.1.4 Uniform gauge
When the Infrastructure Manager has sufficient space available, they can define a non-variable gauge
with a design that permits easier management for the Infrastructure Managers and may allow the passage
of exceptional consignments. This gauge, which generally incorporates additional allowances, is a
nominal type infrastructure gauge called a uniform gauge.
Uniform gauges are used in Europe by several networks. Their application rules may differ according to
the networks.
This approach creates an additional allowance compared to the infrastructure installation nominal gauge
used and is only possible if adequate space is available on site.
The Infrastructure Manager shall always check the conditions on which this gauge is based and shall
always return to the infrastructure installation nominal gauge when these conditions are not met any
longer.
The passage of exceptional consignments shall be agreed with the Infrastructure Manager.
More detailed information can be found in Annex G.
5.1.5 Choice of gauge
5.1.5.1 Introduction
The gauge choice is up to the Infrastructure Managers. For this, the Infrastructure Manager may need to
consider:
— the technical specifications for interoperability in force;
— the bilateral or multilateral agreements;
— international technical specifications in force;
— the space available on the lines concerned;
— the specific restrictions imposed by the infrastructure.
The Infrastructure Manager is responsible for the maintenance of the chosen gauge over time.
The calculation method is strongly linked to the gauge choice.
5.1.5.2 Infrastructure gauge type choice
When constructing new lines, the infrastructure installation nominal gauge should be applied. In
exceptional circumstances it is permitted for the Infrastructure Manager to apply the infrastructure
installation limit gauge.
For all other new installations on existing lines, renewal, upgrading, etc., it is recommended to apply the
infrastructure installation nominal gauge. It is permissible for the Infrastructure Manager to apply the
infrastructure installation limit gauge.
NOTE 1 The aim will always be to clear the infrastructure installation nominal gauge.
An infrastructure verification limit gauge may need to be defined when the Infrastructure Manager wants
to verify the obstacle free running of vehicles on a track in a degraded condition.
NOTE 2 Once selected a particular type of infrastructure gauge for the line or section of a line, it does not imply
necessarily that the same gauge type needs also to be considered in the calculation of the distance between tracks,
platforms and pantograph gauge.
5.2 General information on all the gauge calculation methods
5.2.1 The reference profile and its associated rules
All types of infrastructure gauges are determined by enlarging the reference profile in the lateral and
vertical directions, which are often dealt with separately.
This gauge widening corresponds to the displacements of the reference vehicles that are the basis for
defining the gauge considered.
NOTE The quasi-static effects and the displacements due to random phenomena (except T and T ) cause a
N voie
rotation of the vehicle body in different directions, which translate into vertical and lateral displacements.
The calculation of b and h described in the different methods for the PT (see Figure 3) point is
inf inf
conservative because all the lateral displacements in the same direction as well as all the vertical upward
displacements have been taken into account, which is unrealistic in a real world scenario. Therefore, the
Infrastructure Manager is allowed to invert the mathematical signs of the quasi-static effects and the
displacements due to random phenomena in the related formulae in order to obtain an optimized gauge.
5.2.2 Lateral gauge widening
5.2.2.1 General
Depending on the gauging method and the infrastructure gauge type, some or all of the following
parameters need to be taken into account.
5.2.2.2 Lateral infrastructure gauge variations depending on the local situation
5.2.2.2.1 General
The gauge variations depend on the calculation method used and particularly on the gauge used.
5.2.2.2.2 Lateral projection (S )
i/a
The lateral projection defines the sum of the following phenomena:
— the geometric effect in the curve of the reference vehicles (S );
R
— the effect of the track gauge widening (Sl);
— F value for static calculation method (see CEN/TR 15273-5:2025).
The general formulations are set forth in EN 15273-1:2025. The specific formulae to be used for
calculating each gauge are given in EN 15273-4:2025.
5.2.2.2.3 Lateral quasi-static effect (qs )
i/a
The quasi-static effect gives the reference vehicle body roll in a curve for the upper parts:
In the case of positive cant:
— outside of the curve, under the cant deficiency effect, which becomes maximum at maximum speed;
— inside of the curve, under the effect of cant, which becomes maximum when the vehicle is stationary
In the case of negative cant:
— outside of the curve, under the cant deficiency effect, which becomes maximum at maximum speed;
NOTE 1 With negative cant, the cant deficiency will be higher than equilibrium cant.
— inside of the curve, the effect of cant is neglected (qs =0).
i
Key
ℎ height of the reference roll centre of the vehicle
𝐶𝐶0
𝑞𝑞𝑞𝑞 lateral quasi static effect
Figure 1 — Lateral quasi static effect
It should be noted that, for the kinematic calculation method, the rolling stock domain takes a part of cant
deficiency and cant up to values I and D into account and the infrastructure domain takes the remaining
0 0
part (I-I ) and (D-D ) along with the values s and h into account.
0 0 0 c0
In the static calculation method, the complete D or I needs to be taken into account by the Infrastructure
Manager.
NOTE 2 Other methods exist for taking the lateral quasi-static effect into account. For example, in the case of the
dynamic calculation method, the lateral quasi-static effect is taken into account by the rolling stock domain.
The general formulations are given in EN 15273-1:2025. The specific formulae to be applied for the gauge
used are given in 5.3.2.1 for the kinematic gauging method.
For the lower parts (see Annex B), the lateral quasi-static effect is taken into account by the rolling stock
domain.
5.2.2.3 Lateral random phenomena
5.2.2.3.1 General
Random phenomena to be considered depend on the gauge method and infrastructure gauge type used.
The following phenomena are considered as the responsibility of the Infrastructure Manager.
5.2.2.3.2 Vehicle oscillations generated by track irregularities (T )
osc
Irregularities of the track are one of the causes of vehicle oscillations. The amplitude depends mainly on
the track condition and suspension characteristics. These phenomena are taken into account by the
infrastructure by the value T . Depending on the flexibility of the vehicle, they are located at the base of
osc
an inclination around the roll centre and thus the following gauge widening (Formula (1)):
𝑠𝑠
∆𝑏𝑏 = ∙𝑇𝑇 ∙ (ℎ−ℎ ) (1)
1 osc c0 >0
𝐿𝐿
NOTE Other methods exist for taking this phenomenon into account. For example, in the case of the dynamic
calculation method, this phenomenon is taken into account by the rolling stock domain.
In straight track, the value of T shall be taken into account.
osc,a
5.2.2.3.3 Track displacement (T )
voie
T is a lateral margin that takes into account the lateral movement of the track. The track position is
voie
likely to change between two track maintenance and/or obstacle verifications owing to the traffic loads
and to the track maintenance.
When the track design does not allow any movement in relation to the structure, this allowance may be
disregarded.
5.2.2.3.4 Cross level variation (T )
D
T is a value for the variation of cross level. The cross level of the track can vary in relation to its nominal
D
value due to the maintenance tolerances and to the traffic. This cross level variation T has a double effect:
D
— the reference profile rotates around the track centreline at an angle corresponding to the maximum
𝑇𝑇
D
variation, which causes the following gauge widening (Formula (2)):
𝐿𝐿
𝑇𝑇
D
∆𝑏𝑏 = ∙ℎ (2)
𝐿𝐿
— the vehicle will tend to roll around the roll centre, affected by the flexibility of its suspension, which
will cause an additional gauge widening of parts located above the roll centre (Formula (3)):
𝑠𝑠
∆𝑏𝑏 = ∙𝑇𝑇 ∙ (ℎ−ℎ ) (3)
3 D c0 >0
𝐿𝐿
It shall be noted that the two phenomena are always present simultaneously and are therefore not
independent.
NOTE Other methods exist for taking this phenomenon into account. For example, in the case of the dynamic
calculation method, only the geometrical effect is taken into account by the Infrastructure Manager, the dynamic
effect is taken into account by the rolling stock domain.
5.2.2.3.5 Dissymmetry (𝜼𝜼 )
𝟎𝟎,r
A vehicle will never be perfectly symmetrical; the main reasons for this are as follows:
— poor suspension adjustment resulting in a body roll (T );
susp
— loading dissymmetry which makes the vehicle body roll which results similarly in a rotation of the
vehicle (T ).
charge
In both cases, the vehicle body rotates around its roll centre C The sum of the two angles corresponds
0.
to the agreed reference angle 𝜂𝜂 as shown in Formula (4):
0,r
𝜂𝜂 =𝑇𝑇 +𝑇𝑇 (4)
0,r charge susp
This will cause additional gauge widenings as shown in Formula (5) and Formula (6):
∆𝑏𝑏 = tan�𝑇𝑇 �∙ (ℎ−ℎ ) (5)
4 charge c0 >0
and
∆𝑏𝑏 = tan𝑇𝑇 ∙ (ℎ−ℎ ) (6)
� �
5 susp c0 >0
NOTE Other methods exist for taking this phenomenon into account. For example, in the case of the dynamic
calculation method, this phenomenon is taken into account by the rolling stock domain.
5.2.3 Vertical adjustment
5.2.3.1 General
According to the point on the reference profile and the gauge method, some or all the following
parameters need to be taken into account, either upward or downward.
Key
O movement in upward direction
U movement in downward direction
Figure 2 — Vertical adjustment
5.2.3.2 Vertical infrastructure gauge variations depending on the local situation
5.2.3.2.1 General
The gauge variations depend on the calculation method used and particularly on the gauge used.
5.2.3.2.2 Vertical projection (Sv,u/o)
The vertical projection has to be taken into account either upward (S ) or downward (S ) according to
v,o v,u
the position of the point on the reference profile.
The downward projection has to be taken into account for points where the width b increases with the
CR
height (see Figure 2).
The upward projection has to be taken into account for points, where the width b decreases with the
CR
height (see Figure 2).
The general formulae are set out in EN 15273-1:2025. The specific formulae to be used for calculating
each gauge are given in EN 15273-4:2025.
5.2.3.2.3 Vertical quasi-static effect (∆h )
PT
The roll may generate a vertical movement (∆h ) of the upper part of the reference profile. This
PT
phenomenon shall be taken into account for gauges with a sizable flat in the horizontal upper part) and
is advisable to take into account for other gauges and is left to the discretion of the Infrastructure
Manager.
This effect shall be taken into account only for point PT as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3 — Vertical quasi static effect
Δh is determined by Formula (7):
PT
∆ℎ =𝑏𝑏 ∙ sin𝛼𝛼 − (ℎ −ℎ )∙�1− cos𝛼𝛼 � ≅𝑏𝑏 ∙ sin𝛼𝛼 (7)
PTi,a PT PTi,a PT c0 PTi,a PT PTi,a
Where:
𝛼𝛼 is the rotation of the gauge due to the quasi-static effect. This value (used in the kinematic
PTi,a
calculation method) can differ between the inside of the curve and the outside of the curve. See
Formula (36) or Formula (38) in 5.3.2.2 .
h b are the coordinates of the point considered PT.
PT, PT
The vertical quasi-static effect gives the reference vehicle body roll in a curve for point PT:
In the case of positive cant:
— outside of the curve, under the effect of cant, which becomes maximum when the vehicle is
stationary;
— inside of the curve, under the cant deficiency effect, which becomes maximum at maximum speed.
In the case of negative cant:
— inside of the curve, under the cant deficiency effect, which becomes maximum at maximum speed;
NOTE 1 With negative cant, the cant deficiency will be higher than equilibrium cant.
— outside of the curve, the effect of cant is neglected (∆ℎ = 0 )
PT,a
It should be noted that, for the kinematic calculation method, the rolling stock domain already takes a
part of the cant deficiency and cant into account up to values I and D .
0 0
For the lower parts (see Annex B), this phenomenon is taken into account by the rolling stock domain in
terms of the train architecture (for example: tilting trains).
NOTE 2 Other methods exist for taking this phenomenon into account. For example, in the case of the dynamic
calculation method, this phenomenon is taken into account by the rolling stock domain.
5.2.3.3 Vertical random phenomena
5.2.3.3.1 General
Random phenomena to be considered depend on the gauge method and infrastructure gauge type used.
The following phenomena are considered as the responsibility of the Infrastructure Manager.
5.2.3.3.2 Vertical track displacement (T )
N
T is a vertical margin that takes into account the vertical displacement of the track. The track position is
N
likely to change between two track m
...
Le document SIST EN 15273-3:2025 est une norme essentielle pour les applications ferroviaires, spécifiquement axée sur les gabarits d'infrastructure. Cette norme se distingue par son approche méthodologique détaillée, qui facilite le calcul du gabarit d'infrastructure grâce à des formules précises et des règles associées. Parmi ses points forts, on trouve l'inclusion d'une liste complète des phénomènes à considérer pour déterminer le gabarit d'infrastructure, garantissant ainsi que tous les facteurs pertinents soient pris en compte lors de la conception et de la construction. De plus, la norme offre une définition claire des méthodologies permettant de calculer les différents profils à partir de ces phénomènes, ce qui en fait un outil précieux pour les ingénieurs et les concepteurs de réseaux ferroviaires. La norme précise également les règles pour déterminer la distance entre les centres de voies, ainsi que les exigences à respecter lors de la construction des plateformes. Cela assure non seulement la sécurité des opérations ferroviaires, mais aussi la compatibilité entre les infrastructures existantes et les nouvelles constructions. Un autre aspect crucial de la SIST EN 15273-3:2025 est ses directives pour la détermination du gabarit des pantographes, ce qui est fondamental pour le fonctionnement des trains électriques. En outre, les recommandations fournies pour les divers profils nécessaires à l'installation, à la vérification et à l'entretien de l'infrastructure renforcent la pertinence de cette norme dans la gerbe de bonnes pratiques à suivre dans le secteur ferroviaire. Cette norme est particulièrement pertinente pour les réseaux ferroviaires lourds utilisant divers gabarits de voie, bien qu'elle précise que les véhicules et réseaux autres que ceux mentionnés sont hors de son champ d'application. toutefois, il est indiqué que les règles peuvent être adaptées pour d'autres contextes avec un accord sur la répartition des responsabilités entre le matériel roulant et l'infrastructure. En résumé, le SIST EN 15273-3:2025 se positionne comme un document de référence pour le secteur ferroviaire, offrant des solutions robustes pour le calcul et la mise en œuvre des gabarits d'infrastructure, tout en assurant une approche harmonisée et conforme aux exigences techniques.
SIST EN 15273-3:2025 표준은 철도 응용 프로그램에서 인프라 게이지를 규명하는 데 필수적인 문서입니다. 이 문서는 인프라 게이지를 계산하는 데 필요한 공식과 관련 규칙을 나열하고 있으며, 다양한 현상을 고려하여 인프라 게이지를 결정하는 데 필요한 정보를 제공합니다. 특히, 이 표준은 다양한 현상으로부터 여러 프로파일을 계산할 수 있는 방법론을 정의하고, 선로 중심 간 거리 결정에 대한 규칙을 명확하게 제시합니다. 플랫폼 건설 시 준수해야 할 규칙과 팬토그래프 게이지를 결정하는 규칙도 포함되어 있어, 관련 분야에서의 적용성을 높이고 있습니다. 또한, 인프라 설치, 검증 및 유지 관리를 위한 다양한 프로파일에 대한 권장 사항을 제공함으로써, 복잡한 철도 네트워크의 운영 효율성을 증대시킬 수 있습니다. 프로젝트의 요구 사항에 맞게 이 문서의 규칙을 적절히 조정하면, 다른 차량과 네트워크에도 적용할 수 있는 유연성을 가지고 있습니다. 이 표준은 1,520mm의 트랙 게이지에 대해서는 "S" 및 "T" 게이지에 적용되지 않지만, 다양한 트랙 게이지를 사용하는 중량철도 네트워크에 적합하게 설계되어 있어, 철도 인프라의 안전성과 효율성을 보장하는 데 기여합니다. 이러한 점에서 SIST EN 15273-3:2025는 현재 및 미래의 철도 인프라 개발에 있어 중요한 기준을 제시하고 있습니다.
SIST EN 15273-3:2025の標準は、鉄道アプリケーションにおけるギャージの重要な要素を網羅的に扱っています。この文書は、インフラギャージを計算するために必要な公式とその関連ルールを明示しており、インフラギャージを決定する際に考慮すべきさまざまな現象をリストアップしています。これにより、鉄道インフラにおける安全性と効率性を確保するための基盤が提供されています。 特に、この標準が示す方法論は、これらの現象からさまざまなプロファイルを計算するための手段を定義しており、トラック中心間の距離を決定するためのルールも提供しています。プラットフォームの建設時に遵守すべき規則や、パンタグラフギャージの定義も含まれており、インフラの設置、確認、維持のために必要なプロファイルに関する推奨事項も示されています。 この文書は、さまざまなトラックギャージを使用する重鉄道ネットワークに適用可能であり、他の車両やネットワークに対しても、適切な調整や責任分担の合意があれば適用できる柔軟性を持っています。ただし、トラックギャージ1,520mmの「S」および「T」ギャージには適用されない点には注意が必要です。 全体として、SIST EN 15273-3:2025は、鉄道インフラの設計と運用において不可欠な基準を提供しており、その厳格なルールと推奨事項は、運用の安全性と効率を高めるための重要な役割を果たしています。
Die SIST EN 15273-3:2025 stellt einen bedeutenden Standard für die Planung und den Betrieb von Schieneninfrastrukturen dar. Dieser Standard widmet sich speziell der Festlegung von Regelungen und Formeln zur Berechnung des Infrastrukturmaßes, was von zentraler Bedeutung für die Gewährleistung der Sicherheit und Effizienz im Schienenverkehr ist. Einer der größten Stärken dieses Dokuments liegt in seinem umfassenden Ansatz. Es berücksichtigt verschiedene Phänomene, die zur Bestimmung des Infrastrukturmaßes notwendig sind, und bietet eine klare Methodologie zur Berechnung der vielfältigen Profile, die aus diesen Phänomenen abgeleitet werden. Die spezifische Auflistung von Regeln zur Bestimmung der Abstände zwischen den Gleismittelpunkten und zur Gestaltung von Bahnsteigen verleiht dem Standard eine praxisnahe Relevanz. Zusätzlich behandelt die Norm die Berechnung des Pantographenmaßes, was für die elektrische Versorgung der Züge von entscheidender Bedeutung ist. Die umfassenden Empfehlungen zur Installation, Überprüfung und Wartung von Infrastrukturen stellen sicher, dass die verschiedenen Profile nicht nur theoretisch, sondern auch praktisch anwendbar sind. Die Anwendbarkeit des Standards auf schwere Schienennetze mit unterschiedlichen Gleismitten macht ihn besonders relevant für Betreiber in diesem Sektor. Obwohl der Standard nicht direkt für die Gleise der Kategorien „S“ und „T“ für die Spurweite von 1.520 mm gilt, können die Regeln bei entsprechender Anpassung und Klärung der Verantwortlichkeiten zwischen dem Fahrzeugpark und der Infrastruktur dennoch Anwendung finden. Insgesamt bietet die SIST EN 15273-3:2025 eine hervorragende Grundlage für die Entwicklung sicherer und effizienter Schieneninfrastrukturen und trägt damit maßgeblich zur Verbesserung der Qualität im Schienenverkehr bei.
The SIST EN 15273-3:2025 standard provides a comprehensive framework for railway applications focusing on gauges, specifically within the context of infrastructure. One of its primary strengths lies in its detailed approach to defining the methodologies required to calculate the infrastructure gauge. By listing the formulae and associated rules necessary for these calculations, the document ensures a standardized method that enhances consistency across heavy rail networks. Moreover, the standard highlights the various phenomena that must be accounted for in the determination of the infrastructure gauge, thereby addressing critical factors that could affect safety and operational efficiency. This aspect of the document reinforces its relevance to railway professionals, as it aligns with the need for accuracy and reliability in infrastructure management. Additionally, the guidelines for calculating different profiles from these phenomena are invaluable, as they provide a systematic way to approach complex variables in train and track interactions. The emphasis on rules for determining the distance between track centres and the construction of platforms enhances the standard's utility by ensuring compliance with safety and operational best practices. The explicit mention of rules regarding the pantograph gauge further demonstrates the document’s relevance to various railway operations, catering to the technical needs of both infrastructure planners and operators. The provision of recommendations for profiles necessary for installation, verification, and maintenance solidifies the standard's position as a critical reference for ongoing infrastructure management. While the standard delineates its applicability to heavy rail networks using various track gauges, it also recognizes the potential for application in other contexts with necessary adjustments. This flexibility allows for wider adoption and implementation, which is essential for evolving railway systems. In summary, SIST EN 15273-3:2025 stands out for its in-depth scope and structured methodology, providing essential guidance for professionals involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of railway infrastructure. Its comprehensive approach not only enhances operational reliability but also contributes to the overall improvement of safety standards within the heavy rail sector.










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