Critical analysis of RCF rail defects classification

Abstract

The paper presents a brief review of the rail defect coding systems, which were recommended by the International Union of Railways during the period from 1959 to today. The recommended classification and numbering of RCF rail defects, defined in the document IRS 70712 from 2018, were critically analysed. In addition, harmonisation of European standards and IRS 70712 was found necessary by the authors. The paper points out that appropriate attention was paid neither to the combination of several types of RCF rail defects nor to the occurrence of these defects in the sensitive track zones such as switches, crossings, expansion joints, and insulated rail joints. Authors propose that Infrastructure Managers should supplement the Handbook of rail defects with RCF defects that occur on the railway network under their control. Moreover, the authors present the experience regarding RCF defects on the Serbian railway network.