Tunnel Refurbishment with RHEDA 2000®: A Solution for Confined Cross-Sections and a Customised Transition from Ballasted to Ballastless Track.
During the modernisation of the Hampstead Heath Tunnel in London in 2008, RAILONE was responsible for the design and supply of RHEDA 2000® bi-block sleepers for a low-profile ballastless track solution.
As part of the tunnel modernisation, RAILONE carried out the complete track system design, from the concept and approval phases through to detailed design. The project was undertaken to accommodate larger vehicles, requiring adjustments to the clearance profile. This was achieved by lowering the track gradient and installing a ballastless track system with a low construction height. The proven RHEDA 2000® system was selected, as it is particularly suitable for confined tunnel cross-sections.
The transitions to the adjacent ballasted track also presented a design challenge, which was resolved through customised system integration. RAILONE supplied approximately 3,500 bi-block sleepers and supported the project as a subcontractor to the local lead consultant, Mott MacDonald Atkins. RAILONE also provided on-site quality supervision to ensure precise and durable implementation.
PROJECT DETAILS
Route length: Approx. 1.8 km, double-track
Project period: 2008
Solution supplied: Approx. 3,500 RHEDA 2000® B 355.3 U-20-M bi-block sleepers
Engineering services: Track system design from the concept and approval phases through to detailed design, as well as on-site quality supervision
Special feature: Adaptation of the clearance profile in an approximately 100-year-old tunnel using a low-profile ballastless track system, including demanding transitions to ballasted track
