This standard specifies the requirements for materials, manufacturing processes, dimensions, tolerances, and testing procedures for prestressed concrete sleepers intended for broad gauge railway tracks. It establishes the quality and performance criteria, including concrete strength, prestressing details, and load-bearing capacity, to ensure the safety and durability of the track structure.
Specifies material, manufacturing, and performance requirements for prestressed concrete sleepers for broad gauge tracks.
Quick Reference Values
Minimum grade of concreteM55
Minimum cube strength at transfer of prestress38 N/mm²
Minimum 28-day cube strength55 N/mm²
Static bending test load (Centre Positive)71.6 kN
Static bending test load (Rail Seat Positive)120.0 kN
Maximum permissible crack width during test0.1 mm
Practical Notes
This IS code must be read in conjunction with specific RDSO (Research Designs and Standards Organisation) drawings which provide the exact sleeper profiles, reinforcement layouts, and insert details for different rail sections (e.g., 60 kg, 52 kg).
Strict adherence to curing procedures, especially steam curing, is critical to achieve the specified high early strength (38 N/mm²) required for prestress transfer.
Tolerances for cast-in inserts and rail seat inclination are extremely important as they directly impact track gauge and rail performance.