0CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD SLEEPERS
A good sleeper should meet the following requirements:
(i) It should be economical.
(ii) It should maintain correct gauge and alignment.
(iii) It should be easy to lifting, packing removal and replacement.
(iv) It should be neither too heavy nor too light.
(v) It should provide sufficient bearing area to resist the crushing of the rail seat and crushing of the ballast.
(vi) It should be sufficiently strong to withstand shocks and vibrations due to the dynamic action of trains.
(vii) For track circuiting, the sleepers should be insulated.
(viii) It should facilitate easy removal and replacement of ballast.
(ix) It should not get damaged during the packing and tamping process.
(x) I should not be pushed out easily from its position due to moving trains.
