Q. Illustrate Weld Failures in Track?

These are failures occurring to defects in welding the joint. These defects are either because of improper composition of thermit metal or defective welding technique. The main causes, which normally contribute to weld failures are summarized below -

i. Poor quality of welding of rails particulars of Aluminum Thermit ( AT ) welded joints.

ii. Poor maintenance of track particularly at fish plated joint excessive cracks and unduly large expansion gaps also contribute significantly.

iii. Excessive stress and fatigue particularly in sections, which are over due track renewals after passage of prescribed GMT.

iv. Excessive temperature variations particularly in tropical areas.

v. Other miscellaneous causes such as excessive stresses in rain due to dampness variations & poor formation etc.