CTB CTB Track Systems & Components 2

Question 1

What is a rail anchor primarily used for?

Accepted Answer

To resist longitudinal rail movement (rail creep) caused by train braking and acceleration forces

Answer

To connect rails at joints

Answer

To hold the tie plate to the tie

Answer

To measure track gauge

Question 2

The term 'ballast section' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The cross-sectional profile of ballast, including shoulder width, depth under ties, and side slopes

Answer

The weight class of crushed stone used

Answer

The distance between ballast tamping operations

Answer

The specification number in the track standards manual

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of elastic (spring) rail clips used in concrete tie track?

Accepted Answer

To hold the rail to the tie while allowing controlled longitudinal movement and providing electrical isolation

Answer

To splice two rails together at a joint

Answer

To anchor the tie in the ballast

Answer

To adjust the gauge on curves

Question 4

A 'derail' device is installed on a track to:

Accepted Answer

Intentionally derail unauthorized or runaway equipment to protect the main line or other assets

Answer

Guide trains through a turnout safely

Answer

Prevent rail from moving longitudinally

Answer

Connect two track segments at a grade crossing

Question 5

What does 'cross-level' measure in track geometry inspections?

Accepted Answer

The difference in elevation between the two rails at any given point, measured perpendicular to the track

Answer

The vertical profile of the track centerline

Answer

The horizontal alignment deviation from the design centerline

Answer

The depth of ballast beneath the ties

Question 6

What is the function of a tie plate in wood-tie track construction?

Accepted Answer

To distribute rail load over a larger tie surface area and maintain rail cant

Answer

To electrically connect the two rails in a signal circuit

Answer

To anchor the ballast to the subgrade

Answer

To measure vertical track profile