MKAQ 1093

Academic Session 2023/2024

SEAA 4853 Railway Engineering

Assignment 2

Instructions to candidates:

1. This assignment consists of THREE (3) printed pages.

2. This project is based on the topics covered in all units in the Railway
Engineering course.

3. Answer all questions in English.

4. You can answer the questions using the point form format or the
descriptive essay format with proper citation depending on the type of
question. Marks will be awarded for quality content and presentation.

5. You are required to submit your project report with your UTM student ID,
class ID and name stated on the front-page cover of your report.

6. You are to submit your report via the eLearning system, and it is your
responsibility to submit it on or before the deadline for submission. Please
check E-Learning for the project submission deadline. You also need to
submit your project in hard copy to your lecturer's office.

7. This is a group assignment. No duplication of work will be tolerated.

 MKAQ 1093

Answer all questions.

In a group of 5 students, fulfill the requirement below:

Introduction: Provide an introduction to the significance of track gauge, alignment,

and geometry in railway systems. Explain the objectives of your analysis in this
assignment.

Railway Track Gauge:

a. Define and explain the concept of track gauge.
b. Discuss the different track gauges used in various railway systems worldwide.
c. Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of different track gauges,
considering factors like stability, speed, and compatibility.

Track Alignment:
a. Define and explain the concept of track alignment.
b. Discuss the principles and considerations for achieving optimal track alignment
in railway systems.
c. Investigate the impact of track alignment on safety, speed, and energy
efficiency.

Track Geometry:
a. Define and explain the concept of track geometry.
b. Analyze the essential elements of track geometry, such as curvature, super
elevation, and gradient.
c. Explore how track geometry influences ride quality, safety, and the ability to
accommodate high-speed trains.

Case Study: Select a specific railway system (either an existing one or a hypothetical
system) and conduct an in-depth analysis of its track gauge, alignment, and geometry.
Discuss how the chosen railway system has optimized these parameters to achieve
efficiency and safety.

Challenges and Innovations: Identify and discuss the challenges that engineers face
when optimizing track gauge, alignment, and geometry. Investigate any recent
innovations or technologies that aim to address these challenges.

Conclusion: Summarize the key findings and insights from your analysis. Discuss the
importance of track gauge, alignment, and geometry in ensuring the efficient and safe
operation of railway systems.

References: Cite all the sources and references used in your assignment.
 MKAQ 1093

Prepare a report according to the above requirements. Appropriate photographs,

figures, records, and schematic diagrams are to be included where necessary. All
references need to be properly cited. Your report should not be less than 1000 words.
This assignment also requires for you to prepare a video presentation.

The assignment's submission deadline is January 2, 2024. Submit a video

presentation link from YOUTUBE platform by Januari 3, 2024 and the video will be
presented during the lecture session. The length of the video is not more than 10
minutes. (CLO2, C4, WP1 (WK5), WP2, WP3)

END OF QUESTION PAPER