During a maintenance weekend shutdown of a section of the MTM network, TRA successfully replaced a number of STEDEF sleepers (commonly referred to as ‘dog-bone’ sleepers) with new vibration-attenuating Edilon Sedra EBS mono-sleeper blocks. This work is part of MTM’s broader program to progressively replace life-expired STEDEF components across the network, with more than 8km of track identified for replacement. TRA’s installation of this section of EBS blocks contributes to MTM’s ongoing testing and implementation of direct-fix track structures with vibration mitigation properties—primarily used in tunnel approaches and within tunnels themselves.

TRA delivered these works ahead of time, within a tight rail occupation window, overcoming several key challenges, including:

• Constrained logistic capabilities due to the presence of neighbouring work groups,
• Limited accessibility, as the site was located within a cutting at the entrance to the Jolimont tunnel,
• Reduced working windows limited by inclement weather, which challenged grout curing time, and
• Utilisation of internally owned and modified iron horses to precisely hang rails prior to pours.