This standard specifies methods for characterizing and classifying track geometry quality using track quality indexes and defined track quality classes.
BS EN 13848-6:2026 specifies methods for characterizing and classifying railway track geometry quality based on the parameters defined in EN 13848-1. It establishes reference and alternative methods for calculating track quality indexes, including standard deviation, isolated defect counts, combined standard deviation, point mass acceleration, vehicle response analysis, and power spectral density approaches. The standard defines track quality classes, aggregation and calculation methods, reference TQI calculations, and conversion procedures for alternative TQI methods. It applies to lines with a nominal gauge of 1,435 mm or greater and does not specify requirements for urban rail systems. This edition supersedes EN 13848-6:2014+A1:2020 and includes revisions to the document structure and Annexes A and B.
Application Scope: Railway infrastructure managers, track maintenance organizations, railway operators, track measurement system developers, rolling stock and vehicle dynamics specialists, and professionals assessing track geometry and ride quality.
