Scientific paper ID 1234 : 2015/3

rail ballast has a big influence on the quality and strength of the railway. In this regard thereto has a number of specific ments. The quality of the ballast is strongly influenced by the presence of contaminants. One of the most dangerous pollutants is a tiny fraction, which is formed as a result of friction of ballast grains. The construction of the superstructure of the track may be conditionally called floating. If the parameters of the elements of the track including rails, sleepers and fastenings are selected and invested properly, the ballast is the weakest link in this structure.