Measured Shovel Packing(MSP) of Turnouts

MSP of Turnouts

The MSP of turnouts laid on wooden sleepers is quite effective. This process involves the following steps.

Measurement of voids Voids in the main line as well as on the turnout side are measured by a canne-a-boule.

Location of high points The high points are then located using a gauge-cum-level and these are marked on the stock rail.

Conversion of high points to good points High points are converted into good points on the stock rail.

Longitudinal levelling Longitudinal levels on the stock rail are measured by means of a viseur and a mire.

Total lift Total lift is the sum of the number of packing voids and the difference in the longitudinal levels.

Shovel packing The ballast between sleepers is completely removed and the track is lifted by using track jacks.

Putting back the ballast After packing, the ballast is put back and the joints are tackled once again, if necessary.

Alignment correction The main line is aligned with the help of a viseur and a mire.

Attention to approaches Approaches to the turnout are dealt with by means of MSP or beater packing to adjust the longitudinal levels.