Relationship between delay and the need for stations on single-track lines for train passing

Abstract

The paper is focused on single-track railway lines with low volume of operation under period timetable. The issue, where the stations allowing passing of trains should be located on such lines is solved. The research is conducted on 3 levels of analytic assessment; mesoscopic and macroscopic simulation modelling. Indicators extending possibilities how to assess railway operation in this case are proposed for each level – optimal location of passing place; difference from an optimal passing place; range of variation by position of passing places; number of utilizations of individual stations for passing. Even though simulation has particular nature, it is visible that ratio of delayed trains and mean value of train delay have an important role on the stability of operation. Stations allowing passing should be located close one to another in neighbourhood of an ideal passing place. Simple macroscopic model for periodic timetable operation is also presented as an illustration of context, in which research results should be applied.