SIST EN 13231-1:2024
(Main)Railway applications - Track - Acceptance of works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track - Plain line, switches and crossings
Railway applications - Track - Acceptance of works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track - Plain line, switches and crossings
This document specifies technical requirements and tolerances for the acceptance of works on ballasted track situated on:
- plain line;
- switches and crossings; and
- rail expansion devices as part of the track
for 1 435 mm and wider track gauge railways.
The works on ballasted track, hereafter referred to as track works, concern construction of new track, track renewal and track maintenance.
This document specifies the requirements for substructure works, track geometry, absolute track position, working parameters of on track machines, track components, ballast cross section, structure gauge, stressing works, specific measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices, and for the measuring systems used to perform measurements, verifications and checks for the scope of acceptance. Requirements for responsibilities and documentation necessary for the acceptance of track works are specified.
This document also requires compliance of all track materials with the customer’s relevant acceptance criteria and specifications provided by the supplier.
This document does not cover works related to reprofiling the railhead or the associated measurements, except for some measurements related to safety, as these works are covered by other parts of EN 13231 series.
Platform reconstruction works and level crossing works are not covered by this document.
This document does not apply to urban rail systems or ballastless track.
Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Abnahme von Arbeiten - Teil 1: Arbeiten im Schotteroberbau - Gleise, Weichen und Kreuzungen
Dieses Dokument legt technische Anforderungen und Toleranzen für die Abnahme von Arbeiten im Schotteroberbau für
Gleise,
Weichen und Kreuzungen und
Schienenauszugsvorrichtungen als Teil des Gleises
für 1 435 mm und breitere Spurweiten fest.
Die Arbeiten am Schotteroberbau, im Folgenden Gleisarbeiten genannt, betreffen den Bau neuer Gleise, die Erneuerung und die Instandhaltung von Gleisen.
Dieses Dokument legt die Anforderungen an die Unterbauarbeiten, die Gleisgeometrie, die absolute Gleislage, die Arbeitsparameter der Gleisbau- und Instandhaltungsmaschinen, die Gleiskomponenten, den Schotterquerschnitt, das Lichtraumprofil, die Neutralisierungsarbeiten, die spezifischen Messungen und Qualitätsprüfungen für Weichen und Kreuzungen und die Schienenauszugsvorrichtungen sowie für die Messsysteme fest, die zur Durchführung von Messungen, Prüfungen und Kontrollen für den Anwendungsbereich der Abnahme verwendet werden. Es werden Anforderungen an die Verantwortlichkeiten und die Dokumentation festgelegt, die für die Abnahme von Gleisarbeiten erforderlich sind.
Dieses Dokument setzt auch voraus, dass alle Gleismaterialien mit den relevanten Abnahmekriterien des Auftraggebers und den vom Lieferanten bereitgestellten Spezifikationen übereinstimmen.
Dieses Dokument behandelt nicht die Arbeiten für die Reprofilierung von Schienenköpfen oder die dazugehörigen Messungen, mit Ausnahme einiger Messungen im Zusammenhang mit der Sicherheit, da diese Arbeiten durch andere Teile der Normenreihe EN 13231 abgedeckt werden.
Arbeiten zur Erneuerung von Bahnsteigen und Bahnübergängen werden von diesem Dokument nicht abgedeckt.
Dieses Dokument ist nicht anwendbar für Systeme der städtischen Schienenbahnen und der festen Fahrbahn.
Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Réception des travaux - Partie 1 : Travaux de voie ballastée - Voie courante et appareils de voie
Le présent document spécifie les exigences techniques et les tolérances relatives à la réception des travaux sur voie ballastée, effectués :
- en voie courante ;
- sur les appareils de voie ; et
- sur les appareils de dilatation faisant partie intégrante de la voie
pour un écartement de voie de 1 435 mm et plus.
Les travaux sur voie ballastée, ci-après dénommés « travaux de voie », concernent la pose de voies neuves, le renouvellement et l'entretien des voies.
Le présent document spécifie les exigences relatives aux travaux sur la plateforme, à la géométrie de la voie, à la position absolue de la voie, aux paramètres de travail des engins de travaux de voie, aux éléments de voie, au profil de ballast, au gabarit des obstacles, aux travaux de mise sous contrainte, aux mesures et contrôles qualité spécifiques des appareils de voie et des appareils de dilatation, ainsi que les exigences relatives aux systèmes utilisés pour effectuer les mesures, les vérifications et les contrôles dans le cadre de la réception des travaux. Les exigences relatives aux responsabilités et à la documentation nécessaires à la réception des travaux de voie sont également spécifiées.
Le présent document exige également que tous les matériaux de voie soient conformes aux critères de réception concernés du client et aux spécifications du fournisseur.
Le présent document ne couvre pas les travaux liés au reprofilage du champignon ni aux mesures associées, excepté pour certaines mesures relatives à la sécurité, car ces travaux sont couverts par d'autres parties de la série EN 13231.
Les travaux de réfection de quai et les travaux de passages à niveau ne sont pas couverts par le présent document.
Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux réseaux ferroviaires urbains ni aux voies sans ballast.
Železniške naprave - Zgornji ustroj proge - Prevzem del - 1. del: Dela na zgornjem ustroju (tiru) s tirno gredo - Odprta proga, kretnice in križišča
Ta dokument določa tehnične zahteve in tolerance za prevzem del na zgornjem ustroju (tiru) s tirno gredo na
– odprti progi,
– kretnicah in križiščih in
– dilatacijskih napravah v okviru zgornjega ustroja
s širino proge 1435 mm in z večjo tirno širino.
Dela na zgornjem ustroju (tiru) s tirno gredo, v nadaljevanju dela na zgornjem ustroju, se nanašajo na izdelavo novega zgornjega ustroja, obnovo zgornjega ustroja in vzdrževanje zgornjega ustroja.
Ta dokument določa zahteve za podtalna dela, relativno geometrijo zgornjega ustroja, absolutni položaj zgornjega ustroja, delovne parametre tirnih strojev, sestavne dele zgornjega ustroja, presek grede, svetli profil, obremenitvena dela, posebne meritve in preverjanja kakovosti za kretnice in križišča in dilatacijske naprave in za merilne sisteme za izvajanje meritev, preverjanj in pregledov področja uporabe prevzema. Določene so zahteve za odgovornosti in dokumentacijo, ki je potrebna za prevzem del na zgornjem ustroju.
Ta dokument prav tako določa zahteve za skladnost vseh materialov zgornjega ustroja z ustreznimi merili sprejemljivosti stranke in specifikacijami dobavitelja.
Ta dokument ne zajema del v zvezi z reprofiliranjem ali povezanih meritev, razen nekaterih meritev v zvezi z varnostjo, saj so ta dela obravnavana v drugih delih skupine standardov EN 13231.
Ta dokument ne zajema obnove peronov in del na nivojskih križiščih.
Ta dokument se ne uporablja za mestne železniške sisteme ali zgornji ustroj brez tamponskega sloja.
General Information
Relations
Overview
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 - Railway applications - Track - Acceptance of works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track - Plain line, switches and crossings - defines the technical requirements, tolerances and acceptance processes for construction, renewal and maintenance of ballasted track on 1 435 mm and wider gauges. The standard covers plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices as part of the track and sets out requirements for substructure works, track geometry, absolute track position, on‑track machine (OTM) parameters, track components, ballast cross‑section, structure gauge, neutralization (stress‑free temperature) and quality checks. It also specifies measurement, verification methods and documentation needed for formal acceptance and assigns responsibilities for the acceptance process.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and exclusions: Applies to new build, renewal and maintenance of ballasted track (plain line, switches & crossings, rail expansion devices). Does not apply to urban rail systems, ballastless track, platform reconstruction or level crossing works; railhead reprofiling is covered in other EN 13231 parts except for a few safety‑related checks.
- Acceptance process & responsibilities: Defines procedures, deadlines, roles and documentation required for the formal acceptance of track works and warranty handling.
- Track geometry & absolute position: Requirements for longitudinal and transverse geometry and geodetic positioning to confirm alignment and layout.
- On‑track machines (OTMs): Working parameters and quality control for tamping, ballast compaction/stabilization, ballast replacement and cleaning.
- Track components: Acceptance criteria for rails, welds, mechanical/insulated joints, fastenings, sleepers/bearers, anchors, under‑ballast mats and substructure materials.
- Switches and crossings: Specific measurements, functional and safety dimensions, gap verification and quality checks for movable parts and rail expansion devices.
- Neutralization works: Specification of stress‑free temperature and procedures for neutralizing rails.
- Measuring systems & documentation (Annex A): Normative requirements for measurement devices, geodetic network, data acquisition, measurement methods and traceable documentation.
- Material compliance: Requires all track materials to meet the customer’s acceptance criteria and supplier specifications.
Practical applications
- Use in project acceptance testing for new track construction and major renewals
- Defining contractual acceptance criteria and handover documentation between contractors and infrastructure managers
- Setting measurement and reporting protocols for quality assurance and commissioning
- Guiding on‑site inspection, surveying and validation activities for tamping, ballast works and switch/crossing installations
- Aligning supplier deliveries and component inspections with client acceptance requirements
Who should use this standard
- Railway infrastructure owners/operators and asset managers
- Track engineering and surveying teams
- Contractors undertaking construction, renewal or maintenance of ballasted track
- On‑track machine operators and maintenance planners
- Quality assurance, testing and inspection personnel
- Suppliers of rails, fastenings, sleepers and ballast materials
Related standards
- Other parts of the EN 13231 series (for topics such as railhead reprofiling and additional acceptance procedures)
- National adaptations and customer‑specific technical specifications referenced within project contracts
Keywords: SIST EN 13231-1:2024, railway track acceptance, ballasted track, switches and crossings, track geometry, on-track machines, rail expansion devices, track maintenance, infrastructure acceptance.
Frequently Asked Questions
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 is a standard published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Railway applications - Track - Acceptance of works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track - Plain line, switches and crossings". This standard covers: This document specifies technical requirements and tolerances for the acceptance of works on ballasted track situated on: - plain line; - switches and crossings; and - rail expansion devices as part of the track for 1 435 mm and wider track gauge railways. The works on ballasted track, hereafter referred to as track works, concern construction of new track, track renewal and track maintenance. This document specifies the requirements for substructure works, track geometry, absolute track position, working parameters of on track machines, track components, ballast cross section, structure gauge, stressing works, specific measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices, and for the measuring systems used to perform measurements, verifications and checks for the scope of acceptance. Requirements for responsibilities and documentation necessary for the acceptance of track works are specified. This document also requires compliance of all track materials with the customer’s relevant acceptance criteria and specifications provided by the supplier. This document does not cover works related to reprofiling the railhead or the associated measurements, except for some measurements related to safety, as these works are covered by other parts of EN 13231 series. Platform reconstruction works and level crossing works are not covered by this document. This document does not apply to urban rail systems or ballastless track.
This document specifies technical requirements and tolerances for the acceptance of works on ballasted track situated on: - plain line; - switches and crossings; and - rail expansion devices as part of the track for 1 435 mm and wider track gauge railways. The works on ballasted track, hereafter referred to as track works, concern construction of new track, track renewal and track maintenance. This document specifies the requirements for substructure works, track geometry, absolute track position, working parameters of on track machines, track components, ballast cross section, structure gauge, stressing works, specific measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices, and for the measuring systems used to perform measurements, verifications and checks for the scope of acceptance. Requirements for responsibilities and documentation necessary for the acceptance of track works are specified. This document also requires compliance of all track materials with the customer’s relevant acceptance criteria and specifications provided by the supplier. This document does not cover works related to reprofiling the railhead or the associated measurements, except for some measurements related to safety, as these works are covered by other parts of EN 13231 series. Platform reconstruction works and level crossing works are not covered by this document. This document does not apply to urban rail systems or ballastless track.
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 45.080 - Rails and railway components; 93.100 - Construction of railways. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to SIST EN 13231-1:2013. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2010-01-4867. 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 13231-1:2024 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-februar-2024
Železniške naprave - Zgornji ustroj proge - Prevzem del - 1. del: Dela na zgornjem
ustroju (tiru) s tirno gredo - Odprta proga, kretnice in križišča
Railway applications - Track - Acceptance of works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track -
Plain line, switches and crossings
Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Abnahme von Arbeiten - Teil 1: Arbeiten im
Schotteroberbau - Gleise, Weichen und Kreuzungen
Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Réception des travaux - Partie 1 : Travaux de voie
ballastée - Voie courante et appareils de voie
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 13231-1:2023
ICS:
45.080 Tračnice in železniški deli Rails and railway
components
93.100 Gradnja železnic Construction of railways
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EN 13231-1
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
November 2023
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 93.100 Supersedes EN 13231-1:2013
English Version
Railway applications - Infrastructure - Acceptance of
works - Part 1: Works on ballasted track - Plain line,
switches and crossings
Applications ferroviaires - Voie - Réception des travaux Bahnanwendungen - Oberbau - Abnahme von Arbeiten
- Partie 1: Travaux de voie ballastée - Voie courante et - Teil 1: Arbeiten im Schotteroberbau - Gleise, Weichen
appareils de voie und Kreuzungen
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 8 October 2023.
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
© 2023 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 13231-1:2023 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 6
Introduction . 8
1 Scope . 9
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms and definitions . 10
4 Acceptance of track works . 14
4.1 General. 14
4.2 Acceptance process . 14
4.3 Acceptance procedure . 15
4.3.1 Deadlines . 15
4.3.2 Responsibilities . 15
4.3.3 Preliminary procedure to the acceptance . 15
4.3.4 Results of the acceptance process. 15
4.3.5 Warranty . 16
5 Acceptance of plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices – new
track and renewal . 16
5.1 General. 16
5.2 Substructure works . 17
5.3 Track geometry quality . 19
5.4 Absolute track position. 21
5.5 Working parameters of on track machines (OTMs) . 21
5.5.1 General. 21
5.5.2 Tamping . 21
5.5.3 Ballast compaction and stabilization works . 23
5.5.4 Ballast replacement/cleaning works . 24
5.6 Track components . 25
5.6.1 General. 25
5.6.2 Rails . 25
5.6.3 Welds . 25
5.6.4 Mechanical rail joints . 25
5.6.5 Insulated rail joints . 25
5.6.6 Rail fastening systems . 26
5.6.7 Sleepers and bearers . 27
5.6.8 Sleeper spacing . 27
5.6.9 Bearer spacing . 27
5.6.10 Out of squareness of sleepers and bearers . 27
5.6.11 Voiding of sleepers and bearers . 28
5.6.12 Rail anchor . 28
5.6.13 Sleeper anchor . 28
5.6.14 Ballast. 28
5.6.15 Under ballast mat. 29
5.6.16 Substructure material . 29
5.7 Ballast cross section . 29
5.8 Structure gauge. 30
5.9 Neutralization works . 30
5.9.1 General . 30
5.9.2 Specification of the stress-free temperature . 31
5.9.3 Neutralization of rails . 31
5.10 Measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion
devices . 31
5.10.1 General . 31
5.10.2 Verification of positioning of rail parts for switches and crossings and rail expansion
devices . 32
5.10.3 Verification of functional and safety dimensions for switches and crossings and rail
expansion devices . 38
5.10.4 Verification of gaps for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices . 49
5.10.5 Quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices . 52
5.10.6 Verification of safety and functionality of switches and crossings with moveable parts
................................................................................................................................................................... 52
6 Acceptance of plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices –
Maintenance . 53
6.1 General . 53
6.2 Machine tamping – maintenance measure . 53
6.2.1 General . 53
6.2.2 Preliminary works . 53
6.2.3 Track geometry quality . 54
6.2.4 Absolute track position . 56
6.2.5 Working parameters of on track machines (OTM) . 56
6.2.6 Track components . 56
6.2.7 Ballast cross section . 56
6.2.8 Structure gauge . 56
6.2.9 Measurements and quality verifications for switches and crossings and rail expansion
devices . 56
6.3 Ballast cleaning – maintenance measure . 56
6.3.1 General . 56
6.3.2 Preliminary works . 56
6.3.3 Ballast replacement and cleaning works . 56
6.4 Hand tamping and manual geometry correction – maintenance measure . 57
6.5 Replacement of track components (fastener and sleeper) – maintenance measure. 57
6.6 (Local) Spot ballast replacement – maintenance measure. 57
6.7 Neutralization works – maintenance measure . 57
6.8 Works in switches and crossings and rail expansion devices – maintenance measure
................................................................................................................................................................... 57
6.8.1 General . 57
6.8.2 Verification of functional and safety dimensions for switches and crossings and rail
expansion devices . 57
6.8.3 Verification of gaps for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices . 59
6.8.4 Quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices . 62
Annex A (normative) Measuring systems – Requirements and documentation . 63
A.1 General . 63
A.2 Track geometry . 63
A.2.1 General . 63
A.2.2 Measurement devices . 63
A.2.3 Measurement methods . 63
A.3 Absolute track position. 64
A.3.1 General. 64
A.3.2 Network of survey points and reference systems . 64
A.3.3 Specifications for geodetic measurements . 65
A.3.4 Measuring systems . 66
A.4 Working parameters of on track machines . 66
A.4.1 General. 66
A.4.2 Quality control factors of tamping works . 66
A.4.3 Ballast compaction and stabilization – mechanical stabilization tools . 67
A.4.4 Ballast replacement/cleaning works . 68
A.5 Track components . 69
A.5.1 Welds . 69
A.5.2 Rail fastening system . 69
A.5.3 Sleeper spacing . 70
A.5.4 Bearer spacing . 70
A.5.5 Out of squareness of the sleepers . 70
A.5.6 Voiding of sleepers and bearers . 70
A.6 Ballast cross section . 70
A.7 Structure gauge check . 70
A.7.1 General. 70
A.7.2 Data acquisition . 70
A.7.3 Assessment . 71
A.7.4 Acceptance of the clearance of the structure gauge . 71
A.8 Neutralization works . 72
A.8.1 General. 72
A.8.2 Neutralization of rails . 72
Annex B (normative) Requirements for measuring systems for switches and crossings and
rail expansion devices . 74
B.1 General. 74
B.2 Special design . 74
B.3 Requirements and accuracy of the measurement equipment . 76
B.4 Specific measurements . 84
Annex C (informative) Relationship between D1 values and chord values for LL and AL (based
on statistical evaluation) . 85
C.1 General. 85
C.2 Comparison method . 85
C.3 Results . 87
C.4 Conclusions . 89
Bibliography . 90
European foreword
This document (EN 13231-1:2023) 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 May 2024, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by May 2024.
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 supersedes EN 13231-1:2013.
The main changes compared to the previous edition EN 13231-1:2013 are listed below:
— Enlargement of the scope by inclusion of:
— requirements for substructure works as the quality of these works is substantial for the building
of new tracks or the renewal of existing tracks;
— conformity requirements of all track materials with the relevant acceptance criteria of the
customer and the specifications provided by the supplier.
— New structure of this document in order to offer higher processability/workability and clearer
responsibilities in the track works acceptance process as follows:
— separate clause for acceptance process including acceptance procedure, responsibilities and
warranty specifications;
— separation of requirements for new tracks and renewal works from those for maintenance
works; systematic treatment of requirements for working parameters and track components;
— separate consideration of requirements for corresponding measuring systems and specific
documentation of measurements in a normative Annex;
— structured presentation of the requirements for positioning, functionality, safety dimension and
quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices, and separate consideration
of corresponding measuring devices in a normative Annex.
— Implementation of new available measurement technologies on tamping and stabilizing machines.
— Comprehensive clarification on tamping, ballast stabilizing and ballast cleaning processes and
sustainable use of track ballast.
— Revision of the existing tolerances.
— Definition of new parameters and the respective tolerances.
— Improved coordination with EN 13848 series by systematic references.
This document is one of the EN 13231 series “Railway applications — Track — Acceptance of works” as
listed below:
— Part 1: Works on ballasted track — Plain line, switches and crossings (the present document)
— Part 2: Acceptance of reprofiling rails in plain line, switches, crossings and expansion devices
— Part 5: Procedures for rail reprofiling in plain line, switches, crossings and expansion devices
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 European rail network has a variety of different track construction types, track components,
construction materials, working equipment and methods. These have evolved historically and are also a
result from different geographical and climatic conditions.
Therefore, in some cases, this document provides only minimum requirements. Additionally, national
regulations may apply for particular parameters.
1 Scope
This document specifies technical requirements and tolerances for the acceptance of works on ballasted
track situated on:
— plain line;
— switches and crossings; and
— rail expansion devices as part of the track
for 1 435 mm and wider track gauge railways.
The works on ballasted track, hereafter referred to as track works, concern construction of new track,
track renewal and track maintenance.
This document specifies the requirements for substructure works, track geometry, absolute track
position, working parameters of on track machines, track components, ballast cross section, structure
gauge, stressing works, specific measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail
expansion devices, and for the measuring systems used to perform measurements, verifications and
checks for the scope of acceptance. Requirements for responsibilities and documentation necessary for
the acceptance of track works are specified.
This document also requires compliance of all track materials with the customer’s relevant acceptance
criteria and specifications provided by the supplier.
This document does not cover works related to reprofiling the railhead or the associated measurements,
except for some measurements related to safety, as these works are covered by other parts of EN 13231
series.
Platform reconstruction works and level crossing works are not covered by this document.
This document does not apply to urban rail systems or ballastless track.
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 932-1, Tests for general properties of aggregates — Part 1: Methods for sampling
EN 13145, Railway applications — Track — Wood sleepers and bearers
EN 13230 (all parts), Railway applications — Track — Concrete sleepers and bearers
EN 13232 (all parts), Railway applications — Track — Switches and crossings
EN 13450, Aggregates for railway ballast
EN 13481 (all parts), Railway applications — Track — Performance requirements for fastening systems
EN 13803, Railway applications — Track — Track alignment design parameters — Track gauges 1 435
mm and wider
EN 13848 (all parts), Railway applications — Track — Track geometry quality
EN 14033-2:2017, Railway applications — Track — Railbound construction and maintenance machines —
Part 2: Technical requirements for travelling and working
EN 15273-1, Railway applications — Gauges — Part 1: General — Common rules for infrastructure and
rolling stock
EN 15273-3, Railway applications — Gauges — Part 3: Structure gauges
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
absolute track position
position of the track measured from surrounding geodetic reference points
3.2
acceptance
declaration of the customer to the contractor that the works have been achieved in accordance with the
contract
3.2.1
acceptance process
set of interrelated or interacting activities in order to deliver the acceptance
3.2.2
acceptance procedure
specific way to carry out the acceptance process
3.3
Actuation Locking Detection System
ALDS
system that ensures the correct movement and locking, and enables the verification of correct positioning
of the moveable parts of switches and crossings
3.4
anti-creep device
device to stop or limit relative longitudinal movement between switch and stock rails
3.5
ballast stabilization
dynamic conditioning of the ballast bed which provides compaction of the ballast bed and an increase of
the lateral track resistance
3.5.1
natural stabilization
achieved by train passing in service or machine passing during construction
3.5.2
artificial stabilization
applied by means of ballast compacting tools or dynamic stabilising equipment
3.6
bearer
sleeper for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices
3.7
design track gauge
design value of track gauge for a given track section, which might be different from the nominal track
gauge
[SOURCE: EN 13848-5:2017, 3.2]
3.8
design value
parameter adopted within the design phase/design process
3.9
design track position
position of the track, in a geodetic reference system, defined in the track design process
Note 1 to entry: The control of the design documents and layouts for new or upgraded tracks according to
EN 13803-1 and EN 13803-2 or other regulations is not part of this document.
3.10
deviation from design track position
vertical and lateral difference between absolute track position and design track position
3.11
fixed objects
permanent objects along the track as platform, bridge, level crossing, multiple switches, overhead wire
3.12
insulated rail joint
mechanical rail joint with the additional function to separate the rail ends electrically
[SOURCE: EN 16843:2023, 3.7].
3.13
maintenance
all other works than construction of new track and renewal
3.14
mechanical rail joint
mechanical assembly, for example with fishplates to join two rail ends
[SOURCE: EN 16843:2023, 3.3].
3.15
minor defect
defect which does not reduce the functionality and/or lifetime of the track component
3.16
neutral temperature
temperature value, set by the customer based on the mean value of the lowest and highest expected rail
temperature
Note 1 to entry: The customer may add an offset to the mean value in order to reduce the compressive forces in the
rail at high temperatures.
3.16.1
neutral temperature range
deviation from the neutral temperature
3.17
neutralization
stressing works of the rail involving release of the track to normal traffic at the nominal speed
3.18
new track
complete track construction on a new line where none existed before, applying new materials, including
ballast and substructure material
3.19
nominal track gauge
reference value for track gauge used by individual networks
[SOURCE: EN 13848-5:2017, 3.1]
3.20
OTM
on-track machine
machine specially designed for construction and maintenance of the track and infrastructure as a self-
propelling or as a hauled vehicle, when it is running on its own rail wheels
[SOURCE: EN 17343:2023, 3.1.7.8.1.1, modified (without Note 1 to entry and SOURCE)]
3.20.1
OTMM
track construction and maintenance machine
self-propelled or hauled machine/vehicle which is used in construction, maintenance and/or
improvement of the quality of the infrastructure and which is equipped with a track geometry measuring
system
Note 1 to entry: OTMMs are a subset of on-track machines (OTM).
3.21
plain line
any section of track excluding switches and crossings and rail expansion devices
3.22
pre-neutralization
stressing works of the rail involving release of the track to normal traffic at a speed limit
3.23
rail anchor
device clamped to the rail foot, fitted close to sleeper, to prevent longitudinal displacement of the rail
relative to the sleeper
3.24
renewal
replacement of track components, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices applying new
materials, including the ballast and possibly formation layer material, if necessary
Note 1 to entry: Renewal can be complete renewal or partial renewal.
Note 2 to entry: The customer specifies, depending on the amount of the partial renewal, whether the limits for
new tracks or maintenance shall be applied.
3.25
sleeper anchor
device placed in the middle or at the head of sleepers to increase lateral track resistance
3.26
stress-free temperature
rail temperature at which the rail is free of thermal stress
3.27
substantial defect
defect which reduces the functionality and/or lifetime of the track component
3.28
tamping
correction works of track geometry and absolute track position by machines or manually-operated
devices
3.29
tolerance
permissible deviation from reference or designed value
3.30
track components
rails, welds, rail fastenings, sleepers and bearers, mechanical rail joints, insulated rail joints, anti-creep
devices, sleeper anchors, ballast, under ballast mats
3.31
track geometry
geometric description of the track, characterized by the principal track geometric parameters: track
gauge, longitudinal level, cross level, alignment and twist as described in EN 13848-1
3.32
track geometry quality
assessment of excursions in the vertical and lateral planes from the mean or designed geometrical
characteristics of specified parameters which give rise to safety concerns or have a correlation with ride
quality
4 Acceptance of track works
4.1 General
Acceptance is the declaration of the customer to the contractor, that specified works have been executed
in accordance with the contract. Acceptance is achieved by following the acceptance process, in
accordance with the acceptance procedure.
Acceptance shall only take place when the works have been completed in accordance with the
requirements of the contract.
Works on ballasted track including plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices cover:
— new track,
— renewal or partial renewal and maintenance of track components,
— removing and relaying existing track because of works on substructure (e.g. bridges, tunnels,
earthworks, etc.),
— ballast cleaning and compacting,
— works to correct track geometry,
— stressing works and
— welding.
4.2 Acceptance process
The acceptance process begins when the contractor informs the customer of the completion of their
works and requests the acceptance by means of a written notification.
Representatives of the customer and of the contractor take part in the acceptance process.
For the purpose of acceptance, each part of the track concerned shall be verified as follows:
— for the preliminary acceptance the customer shall carry out a series of checks and verifications in the
frameworks of a preliminary acceptance as listed in 4.3.3;
— for the acceptance of new tracks or renewal works, measurements and verifications shall be
performed according to the requirements specified in Clause 5;
— for the acceptance of maintenance works, measurements and verifications shall be performed
according to the requirements specified in Clause 6.
In case of substantial defects, acceptance should be postponed until their elimination or shall be the
subject of negotiation between both parties. Substantial defects shall be documented (e.g. in an
acceptance form, report, etc.).
In case of minor defects, acceptance should be granted either with reservations or with allowance and
should be documented (e.g. in an acceptance form, report, etc.) as well as, when required, the period
granted for their elimination.
The result of the acceptance shall be documented in written form, outlining the results achieved
according to 4.3.4.
4.3 Acceptance procedure
4.3.1 Deadlines
Acceptance procedure shall take place after the written notification from the contractor has been
registered. The time interval between notification and date of acceptance shall be specified by the
customer in the contract.
4.3.2 Responsibilities
After the completion of works, the contractor shall notify the customer in writing that the preliminary
procedure to the acceptance can be carried out.
The customer and contractor shall specify in the contract who will carry out the measurements,
verifications and checks and how they will be documented.
The customer shall carry out the preliminary procedure for the acceptance of the works.
The personnel and equipment necessary for carrying out the preliminary acceptance procedure shall be
provided by the contractor or by the customer in accordance with the contract.
4.3.3 Preliminary procedure to the acceptance
The preliminary procedure to the acceptance consists of the following operations:
— checking volume and extent of the works carried out;
— checking the records of the measurements and tests according to the contract;
— checking the documents according to the contract (e.g. drawings, notes of calculations, measuring
reports, certificates of used material and of measuring instruments, quality control, etc.);
— listing of works not executed in accordance with the contract;
— listing of non-conformities (missing documents, certificates of used material and of measuring
instruments, other evidence).
4.3.4 Results of the acceptance process
The consequences of the acceptance process shall be notified to the contractor as follows:
— acceptance is granted; or
— acceptance is granted with reservations; or
— acceptance is granted with allowance; or
— acceptance is not granted.
If the acceptance is granted with reservations, the contractor shall take the necessary actions to correct
the defects and/or supply the missing documents within the period of time as agreed in the contract.
After completion of corrective works, the preliminary acceptance procedure shall again be applied to the
corrected defects.
If the acceptance is granted with allowance, the customer decides, in accordance with the contract, which
defects, if any, shall not be corrected and shall be the subject of negotiation between both parties.
If the acceptance is not granted, the contractor shall take the necessary actions to fulfil the acceptance
requirements as specified in the contract. After completion of the acceptance requirements, the
acceptance procedure shall again be applied.
4.3.5 Warranty
The warranty is a contractual term and specifies the right of the customer to have defects corrected by
the contractor even after acceptance, if the customer can prove that the defect is a result of an incorrect
(faulty) production by the contractor. The warranty is limited by a warranty period which shall be
specified in the contract together with the warranty conditions and which starts after acceptance.
5 Acceptance of plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices –
new track and renewal
5.1 General
Prior to acceptance and depending on the type of track works, measurements and checks shall be carried
out on new or renewed plain line and switches and crossings and rail expansion devices manually, or by
automatic means, and shall be documented.
The measurements and checks shall be carried out as follows:
— substructure works as specified in 5.2, see also Figure 1;
— track geometry of plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices as specified in 5.3;
— absolute position of plain line, switches and crossings and rail expansion devices as specified in 5.4;
— working parameters of on track machines:
— tamping works as specified in 5.5.2;
— ballast compaction and stabilization works as specified in 5.5.3;
— ballast replacement/cleaning works as specified in 5.5.4;
— track components:
— rails as specified in 5.6.2;
— welds as specified in 5.6.3;
— mechanical rail joints as specified in 5.6.4;
— insulated rail joints as specified in 5.6.5;
— rail fastening systems as specified in 5.6.6;
— sleeper spacing, bearer spacing, out of squareness of sleepers and bearers and voiding of
sleepers and bearers as specified in 5.6.7, 5.6.8, 5.6.9 and 5.6.10;
— ballast as specified in 5.6.14;
— under ballast mat as specified in 5.6.15;
— substructure material as specified in 5.6.16, see also Figure 1;
— ballast cross section as specified in 5.7;
— structure gauge as specified in 5.8;
— neutralization works as specified in 5.9;
— specific measurements and quality checks for switches and crossings and rail expansion devices as
specified in 5.10;
— damage caused to rails, sleepers, bearers, fastenings, cables and other track equipment, as well as
displacements of the sleepers, bearers or rail pads which occurred during the works;
— compliance of all track materials with the customer’s relevant acceptance criteria or specifications,
in particular acceptance of associated works as well as approval and acceptance of the material
provided by the contractor.
Documentation shall consist of a report substantiated with figures and objective observations, justifying
how acceptance criteria has been met. It shall be signed and dated by the author.
The customer may request additional documented measurements or checks, if contractually agreed.
5.2 Substructure works
The substructure layers, see Figure 1, shall be produced according to the following requirements:
— the load-bearing and deformation behaviour is as homogeneous as possible;
— the load-bearing capacity and frost resistance are not impaired by impurities or fine grain
accumulations;
— no segregation of the grain mixture occurs;
— even compaction with an appropriate water content is undertaken;
— avoiding of grain fragmentation.
...
SIST EN 13231-1:2024 표준은 기차 애플리케이션의 트랙 수용을 위한 기술적 요구사항과 허용오차를 명시하고 있습니다. 이 문서는 단순 선로, 스위치 및 분기, 그리고 레일 확장 장치가 포함된 볼라스티드 트랙에서의 작업 수용을 다루고 있으며, 1,435 mm 이상의 레일 게이지를 가진 철도에 적용됩니다. 이 표준의 강점은 새로운 트랙 건설, 트랙 갱신, 그리고 트랙 유지보수와 같은 볼라스티드 트랙 작업에 대한 명확한 지침을 제공한다는 점입니다. 밑바닥 작업, 트랙 기하학, 절대 트랙 위치, 현장 기계의 작업 매개변수, 트랙 구성 요소, 발라스트 단면, 구조 게이지, 스트레칭 작업, 스위치 및 분기, 레일 확장 장치에 관한 특정 측정 및 품질 검사를 포함하여, 각 작업에 필요한 세부적인 요구사항을 제시합니다. 이러한 표준은 수락 검사 범위를 위한 측정 시스템의 요구사항도 포함하고 있어, 작업 품질 보장에 매우 중요합니다. 또한, 이 문서는 고객의 관련 수용 기준과 공급자가 제공한 사양에 따라 모든 트랙 재료의 준수를 요구하고 있어, 사용자 친화적인 측면에서도 높은 가치를 제공합니다. 그러나 레일 헤드의 재프로파일링이나 관련 측정 작업, 플랫폼 재건축 작업, 그리고 조차장 작업은 다른 EN 13231 시리즈의 일부 문서에 의해 다뤄지므로, 이 표준에서는 제외되며, 도시 철도 시스템이나 무바르식 트랙에 대해서도 적용되지 않음을 명확히 하고 있습니다. 결론적으로, SIST EN 13231-1:2024 표준은 볼라스티드 트랙에서의 작업 수용에 대한 전문가적이고 체계적인 접근을 제공하며, 해당 분야의 품질 관리를 위한 필수적인 참고 자료로 자리잡고 있습니다.
SIST EN 13231-1:2024は、バラスト軌道における作業の受け入れに関する技術的要件と許容範囲を規定した重要な標準です。この文書は、幅1,435 mm以上の軌間を持つ鉄道におけるバラスト軌道の新設、更新、および保守作業に関連しており、平線、スイッチ、交差点、スチール拡張装置など、さまざまなトラック構成要素に焦点を当てています。 この標準の強みは、明確な技術要件を示すことで、バラスト軌道の作業を行う際に必要な基準を提供している点です。具体的には、サブストラクチャ作業、トラックジオメトリ、絶対トラック位置、作業機械の動作パラメータ、トラックコンポーネント、バラストの断面積、構造ゲージ、応力作業、スイッチや交差点、およびスチール拡張装置に対する特定の測定や品質チェックが含まれています。この厳格な枠組みにより、作業の一貫性と安全性が確保され、鉄道インフラの信頼性が向上します。 さらに、SIST EN 13231-1:2024は、受け入れのために必要な責任や文書に関する要件も規定しており、これらはトラック作業の受け入れに通常伴うプロセスを明確にすることで、業界全体にわたる標準化を促進します。また、顧客の関連する受け入れ基準や仕入れ業者から提供された仕様に準拠することが求められ、トラック材料の品質管理が強化されています。 ただし、この標準は、レールのリプロファイリングに関連する作業やそれに付随する測定、プラットフォーム再構築作業、踏切作業、都市鉄道システムやバラストレス軌道には適用されないため、注意が必要です。このように、SIST EN 13231-1:2024は、バラスト軌道に特化した技術的要件を網羅した内容になっており、鉄道業界において重要な位置づけを持つ標準であることが明らかです。
La norme SIST EN 13231-1:2024 constitue un cadre essentiel pour l'acceptation des travaux sur les voies ferrées à ballast. Son champ d'application est clairement défini, englobant des aspects cruciaux tels que la ligne droite, les aiguillages et les dispositifs d'expansion de rail pour les chemins de fer dotés d'un écartement de voie de 1 435 mm et plus. Cette normalisation joue un rôle clé dans la construction, le renouvellement et l'entretien des travaux sur la voie ferrée. L'une des forces majeures de cette norme réside dans ses exigences techniques détaillées et ses tolérances strictes, qui garantissent une qualité élevée des travaux réalisés. Les spécifications concernant les travaux de sous-structure, la géométrie de la voie, la position absolue de la voie, ainsi que les paramètres de fonctionnement des machines sur rail, sont des éléments essentiels qui assurent la sécurité et la performance des infrastructures ferroviaires. De plus, l'inclusion des exigences relatives aux matières utilisées pour la voie et leur conformité aux critères d'acceptation spécifiés par les clients renforce encore la fiabilité de ce cadre. La pertinence de la norme est accentuée par son approche méthodique envers les mesures, vérifications et contrôles nécessaires à l'acceptation des travaux sur la voie. Elle offre ainsi un guide pratique non seulement pour l'évaluation de l'acceptation des travaux, mais aussi pour les responsabilités et la documentation exigées dans ce processus. En revanche, il est important de noter que cette norme exclut les travaux liés à la reprofilage de la tête de rail, laissant cette responsabilité à d'autres parties de la série EN 13231, ce qui souligne l'aspect ciblé et spécialisé de ses applications. En conclusion, la SIST EN 13231-1:2024 est une norme clé qui, par ses exigences techniques précises et sa portée bien définie, contribue significativement à l'amélioration continue des travaux sur voie ferrée à ballast, en garantissant ainsi la sécurité et l'efficacité opérationnelle des réseaux ferroviaires.
The SIST EN 13231-1:2024 standard provides comprehensive technical requirements and tolerances for the acceptance of works on ballasted track, specifically for plain lines, switches, crossings, and rail expansion devices within the context of 1,435 mm and wider track gauge railways. This standard encompasses critical aspects of track works, which include the construction of new track, track renewal, and ongoing track maintenance. One of the major strengths of this standard is its detailed specification of essential elements such as substructure works, track geometry, and absolute track position. This precision ensures that any construction or maintenance performed adheres to a high level of quality, ultimately supporting the safe and efficient operation of railway systems. The inclusion of specific working parameters for on-track machines and track components further enhances the standard’s relevance, as it addresses the practicalities involved in railway construction and maintenance. Moreover, the emphasis placed on the need for quality checks, specific measurements, and compliance with the customer’s acceptance criteria and supplier specifications is a critical feature of this standard. It ensures that all materials and workmanship involved in track works meet predetermined quality standards, thereby promoting safety and durability in rail operations. While the document provides an extensive framework for ballasted track works, its clarity in delineating the scope is also commendable. By specifying what is excluded, such as railhead reprofiling, platform reconstruction, and urban rail systems, the standard avoids ambiguity and sets clear boundaries for its application. This focus helps practitioners easily identify the relevance and applicability of the standard to their projects. Overall, the SIST EN 13231-1:2024 standard is a vital resource for professionals involved in railway construction and maintenance, ensuring that all works on ballasted track are executed in compliance with established safety and quality benchmarks.
Die SIST EN 13231-1:2024 ist ein bedeutendes Dokument, das spezifische technische Anforderungen und Toleranzen für die Abnahme von Arbeiten an Schienen mit Aufballastung festlegt. Der Fokus liegt auf verschiedenen Aspekten, die für die Sicherheit und den Betrieb auf Schienen von 1 435 mm und breiteren Spurweiten von zentraler Bedeutung sind. Die Norm befasst sich insbesondere mit dem Bau neuer Gleise, der Gleiserneuerung sowie der Gle Wartung und stellt sicher, dass alle durchgeführten Arbeiten den hohen Standards entsprechen. Ein hervorzuhebender Aspekt der Norm ist die klare Definition der Anforderungen an die Unterbauarbeiten, die Gleisgeometrie, die absolute Gleislage sowie die Arbeitsparameter der Gleisbaumaschinen. Die detaillierten Vorgaben für Gleiskomponenten und die Querschnittsprofile des Ballasts sorgen für eine robuste und zuverlässige Gleisinfrastruktur. Darüber hinaus enthält die Norm Anforderungen an spezifische Messungen und Qualitätsprüfungen für Weichen und Kreuzungen sowie für Gleisausdehnungseinrichtungen, was ihre Relevanz für die Sicherheitsstandards im Schienenverkehr unterstreicht. Die Norm legt auch fest, dass alle Gleismaterialien den relevanten Abnahmekriterien und Spezifikationen des Kunden entsprechen müssen, was die Verantwortung der Lieferanten und die Qualität der verwendeten Materialien in den Vordergrund stellt. Diese Anforderungen sind entscheidend, um die Langlebigkeit und die Sicherheit der Gleisanlagen zu gewährleisten. Ein weiterer positiver Aspekt der SIST EN 13231-1:2024 ist die Klarheit in der Dokumentation und den erforderlichen Verantwortlichkeiten, die für die Abnahme der Gleisarbeiten notwendig sind. Dies trägt zur Vermeidung von Missverständnissen und zur Sicherstellung einer ordnungsgemäßen Arbeitsausführung bei. Es ist wichtig zu beachten, dass die Norm keine Arbeiten zur Reprofilierung des Schienenkopfes oder die damit verbundenen Messungen abdeckt, außer für sicherheitsrelevante Messungen, die in anderen Teilen der EN 13231-Serie behandelt werden. Ebenso sind Plattformumbaumaßnahmen und Bahnübergangsarbeiten nicht Bestandteil dieser Norm, was ihre spezifische Ausrichtung auf die Anforderungen an ballasted Track unterstreicht. Die Norm ist jedoch nicht auf städtische Schienensysteme oder gleislose Gleise anwendbar, was ihre Zielgruppe klar abgrenzt. Insgesamt bietet die SIST EN 13231-1:2024 eine umfassende Grundlage für die Abnahme von Arbeiten an Aufballastungsgleisen und stellt sicher, dass die entsprechenden Standards im Bahnbereich eingehalten werden. Die detaillierte Behandlung der verschiedenen technischen Anforderungen macht diese Norm zu einem unverzichtbaren Werkzeug für alle, die in der Planung, Ausführung oder Abnahme von Gleisarbeiten tätig sind.
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