Development of technology for localization and performance improvement of high speed rail turnout

초록

Beginning with Gyeongbu high speed rail that initially started Ph-1 operation (Seoul~Dongdaegu) in April 2004, Ph-2 (Dongdaegu~Busan) and Honam HSR (Osong~Gwangju) have joined in revenue operation, making nation's whole territory a half-day life zone and as a result, HSR operation for more than a decade has led our country to a HSR leader in the world. Besides Ph-2 of Gyeongbu HSR (Dongdaegu~Busan), about 140 sets of high speed turnouts manufactured domestically have been installed and localization has been continued through constant R&D projects but the core parts including tongue rail and fastening system still depend on the import. Now technology development of high speed turnout to accomplish the goal of 100% localization and performance improvement has been implemented through government-financed R&D projects. Included in major research topics are the localization of tongue rail and wing rail, application of optimal FAKOP to point part, structural improvement to enhance the maintainability of crossing part and application of localized fastening system, etc. Currently, test product is at the fabrication stage and performance verification is underway by Korea Rail Network Authority for in-site test installation on Honam HSR at the end of September or early October. This paper is intended to describe the process and the results of technology development of high speed turnout, demonstrating its superior performance.