Enhancing Switch & Crossing Performance: A Physics-Based Design Optimisation for the Whitehall Quadruple Diamond
September 15 @ 12:30 - 13:30
Prof Yann Bezin, Professor of Railway Dynamics, Dr Samuel Hawksbee, Senior Research Fellow, University of Huddersfield and Adam Broomhall, Senior Project Engineer, Network Rail.
RailEI Lunch & Learn
The Whitehall Junction, located west of Leeds station, forms a critical node within the TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU), where two double-track routes intersect in a complex quadruple diamond configuration. This layout has historically presented significant maintenance challenges, including frequent twist faults, component failures, and high renewal rates. Despite a partial renewal in Christmas 2021—introducing concrete bearers with under bearer pads, improved ballast arrangements, and geocell reinforcement—performance issues persist, restricting maintenance interventions and increasing lifecycle costs.
To address these challenges, the Institute of Railway Research (IRR) at the University of Huddersfield has developed a bespoke, physics-based numerical model of the entire diamond crossing. The model integrates multi-body system (MBS) dynamics and finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate the interaction between trains and infrastructure, capturing cumulative damage effects under realistic traffic conditions. A calibrated baseline model reflects current asset conditions, including track geometry variability, ballast stiffness, and joint behaviour, providing a robust benchmark for design evaluation.
A multi-disciplinary expert workshop involving TRU stakeholders and industry partners identified several innovative redesign concepts, including enhanced bearer configurations and composite longitudinal support solutions. These options are being systematically assessed using the digital model to quantify performance improvements, reduce stress concentrations, and optimise maintenance requirements.
This work demonstrates how advanced simulation can inform evidence-based design decisions for complex S&C systems. The outcomes will support a best-value solution for Whitehall Junction, reducing whole-life costs, improving reliability, and contributing to capacity and performance enhancements across the TRU network. The approach provides a transferable methodology for other high-maintenance railway assets.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/339272848609816?p=SLWMzc3nNlODnrwczp
Meeting ID: 339 272 848 609 816
Passcode: 65ZP7fm7
Dial in by phone
+44 20 3321 5213,,46838614# United Kingdom, City of London
Phone conference ID: 468 386 14#
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