Review of mixed traffic on high-speed rail lines: global and Russian experience

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of global and domestic practices in the design and operation of high-speed railways with mixed traffic – the simultaneous circulation of high-speed passenger and freight (container) trains. Special attention is paid to the choice of circular curve radii at design speeds of up to 400 km/h and operational speeds of up to 360 km/h. The relevance of the study is driven by the need to significantly increase the efficiency of both existing and newly developed railway infrastructure while simultaneously ensuring traffic safety, passenger comfort, and the economic feasibility of investments. The core challenge lies in the technologically sound integration of differing operational requirements for the track under mixed traffic conditions – including permissible speeds, the degree and nature of track wear, dynamic stability of rolling stock, engineering and construction constraints, and the need to achieve high line capacity under heterogeneous traffic patterns. The paper reviews examples from Germany, France, China, Japan, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Russia. A comparison is made between the engineering, operational, and economic characteristics of mixed and dedicated traffic on high-speed rail lines. The main factors influencing the selection of curve radii are identified: speed, track gradients, wear of infrastructure and rolling stock, and safety. The study concludes that dedicated lines are preferable for heavily loaded passenger corridors in Russia, while partial mixed-traffic integration may be feasible in regions with lower traffic volumes involving trains of various categories. Recommendations are provided regarding the applicability of specific design solutions.