Railway Track Geometry Calculation and Classification
EN 14253 establishes methods for measuring, calculating, and classifying geometric parameters of railway tracks including gauge, alignment, and longitudinal profile. This standard provides quality classifications that determine allowable operating speeds and maintenance priorities for railway lines across Europe. Railway infrastructure operators, maintenance contractors, and network authorities rely on accredited measurement and assessment to ensure safe train operations and optimize maintenance scheduling. Accreditation of testing laboratories guarantees consistent, reproducible measurement methodologies and impartial classification decisions. Proper track geometry monitoring prevents derailments, reduces component wear, and maintains passenger and freight service reliability.
What it measures
Track gauge (rail-to-rail distance)
Horizontal and vertical alignment deviations
Longitudinal profile and gradient parameters
Twist and cross-level of the track
Quality classification relative to speed limits
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DIN EN 14253:2019
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BS EN 14253:2019
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NF EN 14253:2019
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UNI EN 14253:2019
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UNE EN 14253:2019
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NEN EN 14253:2019
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DIN EN 13848-1
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BS EN 13848-1
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NF EN 13848-1
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UNI EN 13848-1
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UNE EN 13848-1
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NEN EN 13848-1
cartridges, based on HTM 20309.201 to 9.212 and BS EN ISO35 °C/3 days based on HTM 2030section 9.201 to 9.212, BS ENISO 15883-1:2009 6.4.2.3 and+ 3 more
Railway infrastructure maintenance and operationsHigh-speed and conventional rail networksRailway engineering and design consultancyTrack inspection and diagnostics servicesUrban transit and light rail systems
Related Standards
EN 14253:2019Railway applications - Track geometry - Measuring the position of railway track - Specification and tolerances for track geometry quality
EN 13848-1Railway applications - Track - Track geometry quality - Part 1: Characterisation of track geometry
EN 13848-5Railway applications - Track - Track geometry quality - Part 5: Geometric quality assessment of a track section for maintenance
Scope