3-D Degradation analysis of railroad ballast

Degradation behaviour of aggregate particles of the size of railroad ballast (32–63 mm) is examined using Los Angeles (LA) milling and 3-D scanning techniques. Seven different rock types were tested at four stages of milling. For the analytical geometry and topography characterization, a new method based on Fourier and power spectra was used. The results are compared with those obtained using geometrical methods and traditional manual measurements. Diminishing of surface roughness and dimensions is evident. The change in roughness was 20–35% and for maximum dimensions of less than 10% in the case of hard rock types. The LA value was less than 15. For the weaker particles values of more than 40% and more than 20%, respectively, were obtained. The fractal dimension approached a value of 2 as a function of milling rates. Electronic Publication