Press review: TU and HEAG mobilo work on new track bed for Darmstadt

In a joint project, the university and local transport provider want to examine what the track bed of streetcars in Darmstadt needs to be made of in order to last longer. An article on echo-online

2024/10/01 by

What should the track bed in Darmstadt be made of? This question will be scientifically investigated by the Technical University of Darmstadt in the future. Together with the Institute for Traffic Route Construction, the local transport provider HEAG mobilo is examining the differences in the production, maintenance and renewal of various superstructure systems in order to select the most suitable systems depending on the framework conditions and requirements. The superstructure of a railroad line consists of the ballast and the tracks on top of it.

Darmstadt system to reduce costs

As TU and Heag mobilo have now announced, the development of a “Darmstadt superstructure system” is necessary in order to meet the technical requirements of local traffic loads. Bus traffic, in particular, has an impact on streetcar infrastructure and road surfaces at traffic junctions or special railroad structures. The aim of the research cooperation “Darmstadt superstructure system for local transport routes” (Dana) is therefore to optimize local transport routes and to pay even greater attention to quality control and monitoring. A solution developed specifically for Darmstadt is intended to reduce maintenance measures and increase sustainability.

Field measurements in the rail network are planned to expand the know-how. This will give the Technical University the opportunity to gain knowledge from practical experience and thus supplement previous results. Both data bases are then to be combined to create a well-founded starting position. Initial investigations have already been carried out at various points on the route network. Material samples and drill cores have been taken from the “Schloss” stop in order to examine the different asphalt layers – including the new “bus pavement”. The special surface layer was installed throughout the entire track area and is intended to provide more stability and prevent rutting and damage.

Further measurements were carried out on the track in Rheinstraße, in Poststraße at the main station, in the “Berliner Allee” stop area and on “Dreieichweg” in Darmstadt-Arheilgen. According to the announcement, the next step will be to analyze damaged areas in Heidelberger Straße.

Read the article here on echo-online.