Division 4.1.2 Axle load (BP10)

The mass on the rail shall be minimised in order to reduce the forces exerted on the track by the train.

This paragraph specifies the static axle load for interoperable rolling stock; note that the dynamic load from train movement is specified in basic parameter 4 (Section 4.1.1).

The limiting values for the static axle loads specified for interoperable trains are set out in the infrastructure TSI.

The track forces are based on the limits set by the increased track stresses resulting from excessive axle loads.

These different aspects are closely linked with the infrastructure subsystem in which the quality of the track is specified.

Note that a limit to the mass will also have the effect of reducing the installed power required and the energy consumption.

The maximum static load P₀ for a motored axle shall not exceed:

• for rolling stock designed to operate on specially constructed high-speed lines at speeds equal to or greater than 250 km/h:

  • P_o < or = 17 t/axle where V > 250 km/h,

  • P_o < or = 18 t/axle where V = 250 km/h,

  where V = maximum service speed

  The static load P₀ for a non-powered axle shall not exceed 17 t,

• for rolling stock designed to operate on specially upgraded high-speed lines at speeds of the order of 200 km/h:

  • F1the technical rules in use on these lines are applicable.

These maximum values are to be considered with a 2 % tolerance for the average axle load of the whole trainset. Furthermore, for each individual axle load, a 4 % tolerance is acceptable.

In addition, the difference in static load between each side of the same vehicle shall not exceed 6 %.