Neoloy Tough-Cells proven to be the strongest solution for rail track reinforcement – improving long-term track quality and reducing maintenance needs. 

The Challenge – Reducing Railway Maintenance

The 457-mile mainline Northeast Corridor, from Washington DC to Boston is one of the highest volume rail corridors in the world, carrying 2,200 commuter and freight trains daily. A problematic section of track in the state of Maryland passes through soft clay subgrade with poor drainage that fouls the ballast. High speed railways are very sensitive for track geometry degradation. This necessitates frequent, expensive tamping every 3-4 months and results in speed limitations and a degradation of service. 

Unique and Proven Technology for High-Speed Railways

As part of Federal Railway Administration (FRA) program to promote technologies that will advance high speed railways, Amtrak (US National Railroad Corporation), Harsco Rail Consulting Group and Columbia University – have evaluated several geosynthetics solutions. Click Here to read Prof. Alan Zarembski testimonial. 

After evaluating several unreinforced solutions, including moisture barriers, geogrids and HDPE Soft-Cells –  Neoloy Tough-Cells showed the highest results for track reinforcement:

1. 84% less track maintenance.
2. x7 increase in lifecycle durability
3. Return of Investment (ROI) is expected to be within a year.

Neoloy Tough-Cells – the Smartest Solution for Railway Track Reinforcement

Neoloy Tough-Cells are made of a unique Novel Polymeric Alloy (NPA) providing the following properties: 

• High tensile strength – the highest ground reinforcement factor 

• Low permanent deformation (creep) under loading – sustain the longest performance (design life 20+). 

• High Elastic Stiffness– sustaining high stress without deformation. 

These properties provide the highest and strongest performance for railway track reinforcement –  track geometry is preserved for long-term, at the lowest costs. 

The Neoloy Tough-Cell system is based on a hybrid structure of geocell on geogrid working platform. Neoloy Tough-Cells Category D (Heavy Duty) were installed at the ballast/sub-ballast interface. The geogrid was installed on the subgrade layer as a working platform. 

Fastest Implementation, Quickest Investment Return

Knowledge transfer for the Amtrak installation team went smoothly. The entire operation took place during a long weekend when the track was removed from service. Standard Amtrak quality ballast and sub-ballast were used. The impact of Neoloy was noticeable immediately – the trucks hauling infill caused severe rutting to the wet mud subgrade as they approached the installation area, but easily traversed the areas in which Neoloy Tough-Cells were already installed with no rutting whatsoever. 

Unique Client Benefits: 

• Track Quality Index (TQI) improved 

• Vertical pressure on the substructure reduced 

• Proven solution for soft soil – fouled ballast 

• Speed and service on high-traffic corridors restored to original levels 

• Improves operational and economic viability of high-speed passenger rail systems