Application of WAK test to Identify Unstable Concrete Sleeper

In this study a new detection technique based on WAK is introduced that can be used for identifying unstable concrete sleeper installed in ballast by triggering activated wave on the sleeper surface. If a gap exists immediately below the concrete sleeper, static stiffness can be lower than stable case’s stiffness. The concrete sleeper is assumed as a single degree of freedom system (SDOF). The static stiffness K can be obtained by iteratively calculated mass (m), stiffness (k) and damping coefficient (c) of SDOF system. Those coefficients are used to specify the ballast condition such as a gap between the sleeper and ballast. Typical test results using a small sleeper model test are summarized and explained for proof of effectiveness of the WAK test for checking unstable condition of the sleeper.