Capacity of pile foundations for railway over-line electrification equipment

Up until the early 21st century, foundations for railway over-line electrification equipment (OLE) on UK railways were traditionally up to 5 m in length. However, design methods and structures introduced in connection with the Great Western Electrification Programme led to pile lengths up to roughly twice this. The reasons for this have been explored, and the applicability of the traditional empirical approach demonstrated with reference to a limited series of field tests, but considerable uncertainties and opportunity for further economy remain. The aim of this project is to explore factors influencing the capacity of pile foundations for railway OLE support masts, which may include the effects of an embankment or cutting slope on the lateral resistance; soil stiffness and the assessment of serviceability; the impacts of load cycling and gust loading; interactions between lateral, vertical and twist loading; and site characterisation issues. Investigative methods may include field testing, numerical and analytical modelling, and geotechnical centrifuge testing.