Railway track characterization with coupled use of PANDA® DCP and Geo-endoscopy – a new technique
The PANDOSCOPE® is a ‘new’ non-destructive method of railway ballast condition assessment, which uses light and cost effective tests, based on the coupled use of the PANDA® dynamic cone penetrometer (a sophisticated DCP) and geo-endoscopy (images from down boreholes).
The knowledge of mechanical and physical properties of existing subgrade and sub ballast layers is very important for the future track design. Such data can be acquired through geotechnical tests. However, the majority of classical geotechnical tests (e.g rigs) can be difficult to carry out on revenue service lines because of existing railway constraints (e.g. limited possession times, track access, no destabilization of the track etc).
Hence, the objective of this PANDA® DCP / geo-endoscopy combination (PANDOSCOPE®) is to provide the rail asset manager key point indicator to help with the optimization of the maintenance and renewal strategy.
To find out more, see PANDOSCOPE®.
After scouring the market, we settled on the PANDA DCP test equipment as it offered the technical capability and, moreover, the flexibility required to work in the restricted environment our project presented; overhead clearance typically at 1500mm but as low as 1200mm. We had a unique problem that required a unique solution and that’s precisely what we found through the team at Insitutek and the PANDA equipment. The ease of assembly, intuitive operability and compact nature of the equipment, made light of the numerous soundings we required across a widely dispersed area.
Our Plate Load equipment is getting a lot of use. We’re very happy with it. 🙂
The ZFG 3000 is an excellent tool and should be included in any professional contractors equipment list of assets. This tool should have a similar impact on the construction industry as the laser level. The ability to accurately and reliably measure this aspect of ground condition will improve the quality of the work and remove doubt as to the progress of the project.
I bought my ZFG 3000 and on the same day less than two hours later, it had paid for itself. Using this instrument, I was able to demonstrate scientifically, repeatably and independently the quality of the work that we had completed for our client. Ending the disagreement and creating an improved working relationship. Most jobs are not as confrontational as this was however, most jobs are built to a standard. The contractor can now measure as required, to know on site, at the time of testing if this standard is being achieved.
I strongly recommend the ZFG 3000 Deflectometer to any earthmoving, civil construction contractor. Good luck with your projects.
Insitutek Blogs
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