Question 1

For a standard Broad Gauge (B.G.) single track, the typical design width of the ballast section (top width over sleepers including shoulders) is kept approximately

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The ballast section provides load distribution, drainage, and track stability. Its top width (including shoulders beyond sleeper ends) is a practical design choice that balances mechanical stability and material economy for a given gauge and traffic density. Given Data / Assumptions: Gauge: Indian Broad Gauge. Typical main-line design with standard sleeper lengths. Ballast shoulder width selected to maintain lateral stability and drainage. Concept / Approach: Empirical practice sets shoulder widths and total ballast top width to ensure adequate confinement of sleepers, prevent lateral spread under dynamic loads, and promote drainage. For B.G., a commonly used top ballast width is about 3.35 m in many standard sections. Step-by-Step Solution: Consider sleeper length and desired shoulder beyond sleeper ends (typically several hundred millimetres each side).Add sleeper seating width plus two shoulders to obtain ballast top width.Select the standard approximate value → ~3.35 m. Verification / Alternative check: Standard drawings and schedules for B.G. single track show ballast top width values around this figure for typical routes; heavy-haul or high-speed corridors may adopt larger shoulders. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2.35 m or 2.53 m are too narrow to give proper shoulder; 3.53 m is larger than typical standard design for ordinary routes; “None” is unnecessary since 3.35 m is standard practice. Common Pitfalls: Confusing ballast top width with formation width (which is larger) or sleeper spacing; neglecting drainage when reducing widths. Final Answer: 3.35 m

Question 2

Equilibrium superelevation (cant) for railway curves: for gauge G (m), train speed V (km/h), and curve radius R (m), the equilibrium cant is given by

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Superelevation (cant) balances the centrifugal effect on curves so that wheel loads are more evenly distributed and lateral forces are reduced. The equilibrium value depends on gauge, speed, and curvature, and is essential for safe, comfortable high-speed operation. Given Data / Assumptions: G = track gauge in metres (distance between gauge faces). V = train speed in km/h. R = curve radius in metres. e is required in millimetres (mm). Concept / Approach: Equating centrifugal acceleration V^2/(R g) to the component of gravitational acceleration along the plane of the superelevated track leads to the familiar relationship e/G = V^2/(127 R) when V is in km/h and e in mm. The constant 127 incorporates unit conversions and g. Step-by-Step Solution: Start from balance: tan θ ≈ e/G = V^2 / (g R).Convert V (km/h) to consistent form, incorporate g and unit factors → 127 in the denominator for e in mm.Final: e (mm) = (G × V^2) / (127 R). Verification / Alternative check: For G = 1.676 m, V = 80 km/h, R = 600 m: e ≈ 1.676 × 6400 / (127 × 600) ≈ 0.141 m ≈ 141 mm, consistent with practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options (b)–(d) are incorrect rearrangements; (e) ignores gauge and uses a different empirical constant unrelated to the standard derivation. Common Pitfalls: Using R in degrees of curve instead of metres; forgetting that sanctioned cant may be less than equilibrium to accommodate mixed traffic; exceeding maximum cant or cant deficiency limits. Final Answer: e (mm) = (G × V^2) / (127 R)

Question 3

The small acute angle between the gauge faces of the stock rail and the tongue (switch) rail in a turnout is termed the

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Turnout geometry uses several distinct angles. Confusing them can lead to misinterpretation of design tables or improper field settings. The switch angle specifically relates to the contact geometry between stock and tongue rails that guides wheels into the selected route. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard turnout with a switch and a crossing. Gauge faces define the running surfaces for wheel flanges. Concept / Approach: The switch angle is measured between the gauge face of the stock rail and the gauge face of the tongue rail when the switch is set for a route. It is typically a very small angle to assure smooth divergence without causing flange climb or impact. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the switch assembly components: stock rail (fixed) and tongue rail (movable).Define the small included angle at the switch tip region → switch angle.Differentiate from the larger angle of crossing set by the crossing number and the overall turnout divergence. Verification / Alternative check: Design standards list permitted switch angles and lengths for various turnout numbers and rail sections to guarantee smooth movement and acceptable forces. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Angle of crossing refers to the intersection at the frog; angle of turnout relates to the divergence centerline angle; “flaring angle” is not a standard term in this context. Common Pitfalls: Assuming switch angle equals turnout angle; neglecting the need for proper planing of tongue rail to achieve the design switch angle. Final Answer: Switch angle

Question 4

What is the correct term for a location where a railway track and a roadway intersect each other at the same elevation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Safe interface between rail and road systems is critical. The terminology for such interfaces distinguishes at-grade intersections from grade-separated structures, guiding selection of protection systems and traffic control devices. Given Data / Assumptions: Railway and roadway meet at the same elevation (at-grade). No bridge or underpass is provided. Concept / Approach: An at-grade intersection between rail and road is called a level crossing. It is distinct from inter-rail connections (crossovers) and multi-track rail junctions, and from road-only intersections. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the systems involved: rail + road.Identify the elevation relationship: same level → at-grade.Correct term: level crossing. Verification / Alternative check: Standards specify level crossing types (manned/unmanned, protected/unprotected) and safety provisions (gates, signals, interlocking). Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cross over joins two rail tracks; railway junction is rail–rail intersection; road junction is road–road; “None” is not applicable. Common Pitfalls: Confusing level crossings with overbridges/underpasses (grade separated); misusing “cross over” which is wholly within rail domain. Final Answer: Level crossing

Question 5

For a standard flat-footed rail section used on Indian Broad Gauge, the typical width of the rail head (top portion) is approximately

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rail head width is a key geometric parameter affecting wheel–rail contact, wear, permissible grinding profiles, and lateral strength. Standardized rail sections (e.g., 52 kg, 60 kg) have head dimensions within narrow ranges to ensure compatibility with rolling stock and maintenance equipment. Given Data / Assumptions: Broad Gauge flat-footed rail sections as per common Indian standards. Question asks for the typical head width magnitude in millimetres. Concept / Approach: Representative head widths for prevalent sections fall around 66–68 mm. The value 66.77 mm is a standard rounded dimension used in many drawings and catalogues, reflecting the top running surface width excluding side fillets. Step-by-Step Solution: Consider common head-width values for 52/60 kg rails.Select the widely cited nominal width ≈ 66.8 mm.Choose 66.77 mm from the options. Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturers’ dimensional tables for common rail sections list head widths consistent with ≈ 66–68 mm; maintenance tooling and grinder templates match these values. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 63.50 mm is undersized for standard heavy sections; 69.85 mm is larger than typical nominal; 136.52 mm corresponds to overall base dimensions, not head width; “None” is unnecessary. Common Pitfalls: Confusing head width with base width or overall rail height; assuming identical dimensions across all rail weights without checking sectional tables. Final Answer: 66.77 mm

Question 6

Which of the following statements about sleepers (railroad ties) is incorrect? Choose the statement that does not reflect correct engineering practice.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Sleepers (ties) are critical to track stability: they support rails, maintain gauge, distribute loads to ballast, and provide resilience. On bridges they bear on stringers or ballast decks to transfer wheel loads to primary structural members. Understanding correct functions helps diagnose track defects and specify maintenance actions. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard flat-bottom rail with sleeper fastening system. Inward rail cant = 1 in 20 (typical for modern practice). Curves may require gauge widening, but fastening integrity is maintained. Concept / Approach: Rails must be positively fastened to sleepers to maintain gauge and resist lateral forces, especially on curves where centrifugal forces and flange contact increase. Although slight gauge widening is provided on sharper curves, it is achieved by design (e.g., altered gauge setting) and does not mean the rails are “held loose”. Proper clips/chairs maintain clamping forces. Step-by-Step Solution: Evaluate each statement for engineering correctness.(a) Correct: sleepers relay loads to girders on bridge decks.(b) Correct: sleepers/interlayers provide resilient support; the term “non-elastic” here indicates not perfectly rigid.(c) Correct: inward cant of 1 in 20 is standard to align wheel–rail contact.(d) Incorrect: rails are never intentionally held loose; gauge widening is controlled, not by loosening fastenings. Verification / Alternative check: Track standards specify minimum clamping forces and torque for fastenings; curve maintenance records show intentional gauge values but no practice of loose rails. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options (a), (b), (c), and (e) reflect legitimate functions of sleepers, whereas (d) contradicts safety-critical requirements. Common Pitfalls: Misinterpreting gauge widening as fastening relaxation; neglecting rail cant which improves contact and reduces wear. Final Answer: Sleepers hold the rails loose on curves to permit free movement

Question 7

Railway permanent way (India): For 13 m rails with sleeper density specified as M + 7, what is the minimum thickness of ballast cushion provided beneath wooden sleepers of size 25 cm × 13 cm?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Ballast provides load distribution, drainage, and resilience for railway track. For Indian Broad Gauge practice, standard sleeper densities (e.g., M + 7 for 13 m rails) are associated with typical ballast cushions under sleepers to balance performance and economy. Given Data / Assumptions: Sleeper density: M + 7 for 13 m rails (i.e., 20 sleepers per 13 m rail length). Wooden (timber) sleepers of size 25 cm × 13 cm. We seek the minimum ballast thickness under sleeper (crown to formation top). Concept / Approach: Minimum ballast cushion must ensure adequate load spread and drainage. For timber sleepers on BG with sleeper density M + 7, Indian practice generally prescribes a 20 cm minimum under sleeper to prevent punching of sleepers, enable cross drainage, and allow for tamping without formation contamination. Step-by-Step Solution: Relate sleeper density to track stiffness and maintenance regime.Adopt the standard minimum cushion recommended for timber sleepers on BG under this density class.Select 20 cm as the minimum that meets drainage and support criteria. Verification / Alternative check: Heavier densities or concrete sleepers often use larger cushions (e.g., 25–30 cm). However, the minimum for timber sleepers with M + 7 commonly remains 20 cm. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 15 cm: Too thin; inadequate drainage and load distribution. 25 cm and 30 cm: Possible for heavier duty or concrete sleepers, but not the minimum stipulated here. 36 cm: Excessive for the case; used in special conditions only. Common Pitfalls: Confusing shoulder ballast depth with under-sleeper cushion; assuming concrete-sleeper standards for timber track. Final Answer: 20 cm

Question 8

Indian Broad Gauge (BG) rail sections: Which of the following rail sections is not used on Indian BG tracks?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rail sections are designated by their weight per unit length (legacy “R” series in lb/yd and modern kg/m series). Indian BG tracks historically used heavier sections to carry higher axle loads, whereas very light sections were associated with MG/NG or sidings. Given Data / Assumptions: BG main lines require adequate rail section weight to resist bending and wear. Options show legacy “R” sections of varying weights. Concept / Approach: Among the listed sections, 35 R is very light and unsuitable for BG mainline service. BG has used heavier “R” sections (e.g., 60 R, 75 R, 90 R in older practice) and later 52 kg/m and 60 kg/m rails. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify which section is clearly too light for BG main line duty.35 R lacks the required stiffness/strength for BG operations.Conclude 35 R is not used on Indian BG tracks. Verification / Alternative check: Historical track standards show BG progressively migrating to 52 kg/m and 60 kg/m. Light “R” sections were phased out or limited to lighter gauges. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 40 R, 45 R, 55 R: Heavier than 35 R and historically closer to use on heavier-duty lines, though now largely superseded by metric rails. None of these: Incorrect, because 35 R is indeed not a BG standard. Common Pitfalls: Assuming any “R” section is acceptable for BG; confusing historical usage on MG/NG with BG practice. Final Answer: 35 R

Question 9

Rail vehicle wheel flanges: On which side of the rolling stock wheel are the flanges provided to ensure guidance on the rail?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Wheel flanges are critical to guiding railway vehicles along track, keeping the wheels on the rails at curves, switches, and crossings. Their placement determines how they interact with rails and check rails. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard solid-axle, coned-tread wheelsets used on conventional railways. Normal right-way-up track with standard rail head profile. Concept / Approach: Each wheel has a flange on its inner side (gauge side). The flange provides lateral restraint against the rail gauge face, while the coned tread assists in self-centering and steering. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the gauge face of the rail (inner side).Recall that flange must contact gauge face for guidance.Hence, flange location is on the inner side of each wheel. Verification / Alternative check: Track diagrams show check rails placed against the inner side to control flange path at crossings, consistent with inner-side flanges. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Outer side/both sides: Not used; would cause clearance and interference issues. Neither side: Contradicts fundamental wheel–rail guidance. On the crown only: No such practice; the crown is tread region, not a flange. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “outer” with “field” side; overlooking check-rail function which acts with inner flanges. Final Answer: inner side

Question 10

Timber sleeper suitability: What is the minimum composite sleeper index (CSI) prescribed for wooden sleepers used in cross-overs on Indian Railways?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The composite sleeper index (CSI) is a measure combining strength and durability parameters of timber to assess its suitability as a sleeper. Cross-overs experience complex loadings from turnouts and crossings; thus a higher minimum CSI is specified. Given Data / Assumptions: Application: wooden sleepers for cross-overs (turnout zones). CSI thresholds vary by location severity: plain track vs. points & crossings. Concept / Approach: Heavier impact and lateral forces at cross-overs demand higher-quality timber. A commonly prescribed minimum CSI for such locations is higher than for plain track to ensure adequate life and resistance to splitting and wear. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize cross-over sleepers require better timber class.Select the threshold CSI used for points & crossings.Adopt 1352 as the minimum CSI for wooden sleepers in cross-overs. Verification / Alternative check: Track maintenance manuals list higher CSI benchmarks for special locations compared to plain track. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1152, 1252: Suitable for lighter duty; below cross-over requirement. 1452: Acceptable but not the minimum; represents a higher grade. None of these: Incorrect since a standard minimum exists. Common Pitfalls: Using plain-track CSI for special locations; overlooking increased dynamic effects at crossings. Final Answer: 1352

Question 11

Turnout geometry (curve lead): For a standard turnout, which of the following is the correct expression for the curve lead (C.L.) in terms of gauge G and crossing angle α (or crossing number N)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Turnout layout is defined by key geometrical lengths: curve lead (C.L.), switch lead, and overall lead. Correct formulae ensure the turnout fits longitudinally and laterally within available track space. Given Data / Assumptions: G = gauge (centre-to-centre distance between stock and turnout track). α = crossing angle; N = crossing number such that N = cot(α/2). “I” would denote a layout parameter not universally standard; we focus on widely adopted expressions. Concept / Approach: The curve lead is the length along the turnout curve needed to achieve the lateral offset equal to the gauge at the crossing. Using simple geometry with small-angle assumptions, C.L. = G * cot(α/2). Since N = cot(α/2), C.L. = G * N. Step-by-Step Solution: Relate crossing number N to angle: N = cot(α/2).Write curve lead as C.L. = G * N = G * cot(α/2).Hence option (a) expresses the correct relation explicitly. Verification / Alternative check: Using a typical BG turnout with G ≈ 1.676 m and N = 12, C.L. ≈ 1.676 * 12 ≈ 20.1 m, which matches standard tables. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2 * I * G and 2 * G * N represent other lengths or are not standard for C.L.; “2” factor overestimates the curve lead. All the above: Incorrect; only (a) (or equivalently G * N) is valid. Common Pitfalls: Confusing curve lead with overall lead; misusing crossing number definitions; mixing degrees and radians. Final Answer: C.L. = G * cot(α/2)

Question 12

Degree of a railway curve (India): The degree of curve is defined as the central angle subtended by an arc/chord of length

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In railway geometric design (Indian practice), curvature is commonly expressed in degrees rather than by radius. The “degree of curve” links field measurements (using chords) to the underlying circular geometry. Given Data / Assumptions: Indian practice uses a standard chord length of 30.5 m (100 ft). Degree of curve is the central angle subtended by this standard length. Concept / Approach: Defining the degree of curve via a fixed chord length allows easy field setting with tapes and theodolites. With a 30.5 m chord, the larger the angle, the sharper the curve (smaller radius). Step-by-Step Solution: Adopt the conventional standard chord = 30.5 m.Degree of curve D = central angle subtended by that chord at the circle centre.Thus the correct value is 30.5 m. Verification / Alternative check: Field tables relate radius R and degree D using the 30.5 m basis: R ≈ 1750 / D (approximate in metres), consistent with this definition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10, 15, 20, or 30 m: Not the standard chord adopted in Indian railway practice. Common Pitfalls: Confusing highway practice (where other definitions may exist) with railway standards; mixing chord-length and arc-length definitions—Indian fieldwork uses the 30.5 m chord convention. Final Answer: 30.5 m

Question 13

Maintenance of points & crossings: A wing rail shall be renewed or reconditioned when its maximum vertical wear reaches (use standard maintenance units).

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Wing rails are vital components of crossings (frogs) guiding wheel flanges through the gap near the nose of crossing. Excessive wear jeopardizes guidance and safety, so clear limits trigger renewal or reclamation. Given Data / Assumptions: Vertical wear measured at specified reference points on the wing rail running surface. Standard maintenance thresholds are used in millimetres. Concept / Approach: Wear limits ensure the rail still maintains the correct geometry to support and guide wheels without flange climb or impact damage. For wing rails, a typical limit is around 7.5 mm of vertical wear before action is required. Step-by-Step Solution: Monitor vertical wear periodically using templates/gauges.Compare measured wear to intervention threshold.At 7.5 mm vertical wear, schedule renewal or reconditioning. Verification / Alternative check: Crossing maintenance manuals prescribe lower limits for wing rails than for some plain rails due to geometry sensitivity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 5.0 mm and 5.5 mm: Conservative but below common practice; may lead to premature renewal. 9.5 mm: High for wing rails, risking poor guidance and impact. 12.0 mm: Excessively high; unsafe before reaching this wear. Common Pitfalls: Confusing limits for nose of crossing, check rails, and wing rails; reading wear at wrong location. Final Answer: 7.5 mm

Question 14

History of R.C.C. sleepers: Joseph Monier (inventor associated with reinforced concrete) suggested the use of reinforced concrete sleepers for railways in the year

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Reinforced concrete (R.C.C.) revolutionized civil engineering. Its introduction to railway sleepers promised longer life and better strength compared with timber under heavy traffic. Given Data / Assumptions: Joseph Monier is linked with early R.C.C. innovations in the 19th century. We seek the historical year he suggested R.C.C. sleepers for railways. Concept / Approach: Monier’s work in the 1860s–1870s led to broader applications of reinforced concrete. Around 1877, suggestions and early trials of R.C.C. for sleepers emerged as a logical extension of his patented concepts from the late 1860s. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall Monier’s patents (starting 1867) and subsequent diffusion to structural applications.Associate railway sleeper proposals with the subsequent decade.Select 1877 as the best-supported year. Verification / Alternative check: Historical summaries of concrete sleepers point to late-1870s proposals and experiments, aligning with 1877. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1857: Pre-dates Monier’s R.C.C. patents. 1867: Year of early patents; sleepers proposal became publicized later. 1887/1897: Too late relative to initial proposal timing. Common Pitfalls: Confusing Monier’s first R.C.C. patent year with the sleeper proposal year; attributing sleepers to later standardized adoption dates. Final Answer: 1877

Question 15

Turnout and crossings terminology: Which arrangement of rails allows a train both to cross another track and to be diverted to that other track from the same location?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Complex track layouts enable crossing and routing flexibility in constrained yards and station throats. Understanding the capability of each arrangement is essential for operations and design. Given Data / Assumptions: We compare diamond crossings, slips, and crossovers. The desired function is both crossing and diverging to the intersecting track at one location. Concept / Approach: A plain diamond permits only crossing. Adding slips inserts switch diamonds that enable a route from one track to the other. A single slip allows diversion in one of the two diagonal directions, whereas a double slip provides both directions, maximizing flexibility within the diamond footprint. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify plain diamond: crossing only.Add one slip (single slip): allows crossing and one-direction turnout.Add two slips (double slip): allows crossing and diversion to the other track in both directions. Verification / Alternative check: Track schematics show the double slip has four switch tongues integrated into the diamond, offering full flexibility. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Diamond crossing: no turnout function. Single slip: only one-direction diversion. Cross over: two separate turnouts allowing a train to transfer between parallel tracks, not at the intersection of two crossing tracks. Scissors crossover: compact pair of crossovers between parallel tracks, not a crossing of intersecting tracks. Common Pitfalls: Confusing crossovers between parallel tracks with slip arrangements inside a crossing; assuming any diamond allows turnouts without slips. Final Answer: diamond crossing with double slip

Question 16

Indian Railways – Standard rail length (Meter Gauge): What is the standard length of rails adopted on M.G. (metre-gauge) track on Indian Railways?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The standard rail length is a key permanent-way parameter. It affects the number of joints, maintenance effort, thermal behavior, and riding quality. This question checks recall of the standard rail length historically adopted for metre-gauge (M.G.) track on Indian Railways. Given Data / Assumptions: M.G. denotes metre-gauge track, nominal gauge 1000 mm. Options list common historical rail lengths used by Indian Railways for different gauges. We assume conventional fish-plated rail practice (pre-LWR/CWR context). Concept / Approach: Indian Railways historically standardized rail lengths by gauge: Broad Gauge used about 42 ft (≈12.8 m), Metre Gauge used about 39 ft (≈11.89–12.0 m), and Narrow Gauge used shorter lengths. The choice balances manufacturing, handling, joint spacing, and thermal expansion limits. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the typical M.G. standard: approximately 12 m.Match with the closest imperial option: 39 ft equals 11.89 m (≈12 m).Therefore, select 39 ft (11.89 m). Verification / Alternative check: Permanent-way manuals and question banks consistently cite ≈12 m (39 ft) as the M.G. standard, while B.G. commonly used 42 ft (12.8 m). Why Other Options Are Wrong: 33 ft and 36 ft: below the usual M.G. standard length. 42 ft: typical of B.G., not M.G. None: incorrect because a correct option is present. Common Pitfalls: Confusing B.G. and M.G. standards, or mixing later long-welded rail practices with historical standard lengths. Final Answer: 39 ft (11.89 m)

Question 17

Indian Railways – Standard rail length (Broad Gauge): What is the standard length of rails adopted on B.G. (broad-gauge) track on Indian Railways?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Broad Gauge (B.G.) lines form the backbone of Indian Railways. Knowing the standard rail length aids in understanding joint spacing, sleeper density, and historical maintenance practices. Given Data / Assumptions: B.G. nominal gauge 1676 mm. Conventional jointed track context (prevalent before extensive LWR/CWR adoption). Concept / Approach: Historically, B.G. adopted a longer standard rail length than M.G. to reduce joints and improve ride. The commonly cited standard for B.G. is about 42 ft (≈12.8 m). Step-by-Step Solution: Recall B.G. standard ≈12.8 m.Match to the imperial option: 42 ft equals 12.80 m.Select 42 ft (12.80 m). Verification / Alternative check: Permanent-way texts and exam references align with 42 ft as the conventional B.G. standard rail length. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 33 ft, 36 ft, 39 ft: shorter and associated with other gauges or earlier practices. None: incorrect because a correct value is listed. Common Pitfalls: Confusing M.G. (≈39 ft) with B.G. (≈42 ft). Final Answer: 42 ft (12.80 m)

Question 18

Rail flaw detection on Indian Railways: Which detector is widely used for ultrasonic rail flaw detection?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rail flaw detection is essential for safety. Ultrasonic testing identifies internal defects like transverse cracks and inclusions long before surface failure. Given Data / Assumptions: Question targets brand/model familiarity used historically by Indian Railways. Focus on common ultrasonic portable testers used for in-service inspection. Concept / Approach: Among the listed options, Kraut Kramer (often written Krautkramer) ultrasonic equipment is well known and widely referenced in Indian Railways question banks and practice for rail flaw detection. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the brand commonly associated with ultrasonic rail testing in India.Kraut Kramer equipment has longstanding use and recognition.Select Kraut Kramer rail flaw detector. Verification / Alternative check: Training manuals and past exam keys typically cite Kraut Kramer for ultrasonic rail testing. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mitsubishi / Soni / Audi-gauge: not the commonly cited standard instrument name in IR context. None: invalid because a correct option exists. Common Pitfalls: Spelling variations (Krautkramer vs Kraut Kramer); confusing with other NDT brands. Final Answer: Kraut Kramer rail flaw detector

Question 19

Fastenings for wooden sleepers: Which spike is most commonly used to fix rails to wooden sleepers on Indian Railways?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rail-to-sleeper fastenings maintain gauge and resist longitudinal and lateral forces. On wooden sleepers, simple and robust spikes have historically been used. Given Data / Assumptions: Wooden sleepers in conventional jointed track settings. Common spike types: dog, screw, round. Concept / Approach: The dog spike, with a chisel point and head offset, has been the most commonly used fastening on wooden sleepers in Indian practice due to ease of driving and adequate holding power in timber. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall conventional practice for wooden sleepers.Identify the most common spike: the dog spike.Select “Dog spike.” Verification / Alternative check: Textbook references and IR practice notes consistently cite dog spikes for wooden sleepers; screw spikes are more associated with cast-iron or steel baseplates or chairs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Screw spike: used but not the most common for simple wooden-sleeper direct fixing. Round spike: less preferred for holding power and head configuration. All / None: not accurate here. Common Pitfalls: Assuming “all” because all exist; the question asks for the commonly used type. Final Answer: Dog spike

Question 20

Cement concrete sleepers – key advantages: Which of the following captures the main advantages of PSC (cement concrete) sleepers on Indian Railways?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Prestressed concrete (PSC) sleepers dominate modern track because they enhance stability and reduce life-cycle costs. Understanding their advantages helps in design and maintenance decisions. Given Data / Assumptions: PSC sleepers compared with timber/steel types. Focus on track modulus, gauge holding, electrical behavior, and geometry. Concept / Approach: PSC sleepers are heavier, increasing lateral and longitudinal resistance and improving track modulus. Their geometry and fastenings improve gauge retention. Being nonconductive, they are suitable for track circuits. Their flat bearing area sits well on modern ballast profiles. Step-by-Step Solution: Confirm heavy weight → higher resistance and modulus (true).Confirm gauge retention with elastic fastenings (true).Confirm electrical suitability of concrete (true).Confirm flat bottom compatibility with ballast (true).Hence, all statements are correct. Verification / Alternative check: IR track standards and many studies document improved stability and signaling compatibility with PSC sleepers. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Any single item is incomplete; PSC sleepers deliver all these advantages. Common Pitfalls: Assuming concrete interferes with track circuits (it does not; steel sleepers can pose challenges). Final Answer: All the above

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