Richard S.
Joined: 1-01-91
Topics: 6
Replies: 14
Posted: Tue 29th Dec 2015, 2:19am
Level Crossing
In 2016 I plan to relay our level crossing. I wasn't involved in doing it last time and would welcome peoples thoughts. It needs to take regular use from diggers, septic tanker, the occasional Warship engine. Do I use re-enforcing bar? what thickness concrete? Crossing needs to be about 15 -20 foot long.
Xz
Joined: 1-01-92
Topics: 19
Replies: 254
Posted: Wed 30th Dec 2015, 10:33am
I think I would go for 4" (100 mm) depth if reinforced, or 6" (150 mm) without. That I consider a minimum, dependant mostly on surrounding ground conditions, and I would make it at least 3ft (1 M) wide preferably more. For between the tracks don't use check rails, but leave the concrete 1/2" lower than railhead, that is much easier to keep clean, just a simple sweep with a brush. Crossing vehicles won't even notice the change of level.
You should be aware that frost can go as deep as 18" so if the surrounds are wet or soft take that into consideration.
PeteW
Joined: 1-10-13
Topics: 0
Replies: 21
Posted: Wed 30th Dec 2015, 3:50pm
The design of concrete highways is very dependent on the nature of the underlying ground and the number of standard axles using the road.
I have had a quick look in one of my old design manuals and for your purpose I would go for a 200mm deep slab with A252 mesh top and bottom. Concrete grade 30. I would remove 100mmm of the existing ground and replace it with quarry scalpings thoroughly compacted with a whacker plate.
I agree the width of 1 metre and the detail with the level as described by Xz above.
If you anticipate an exceptionally heavy vehicle going over the crossing I would put down substantial timbers to protect it and help spread the load over the surrounding area.
Pete.