eLibrary Search
The FRA eLibrary contains all the documents that are found throughout the FRA Public Website. Multiple pages on the website may link to the same eLibrary item based on its set of metatdata.
Can I find All FRA Documents in the Library?
Some "documents" may not appear here for the following reasons:
- Document resides on an external site for the record of source, links to the document are provided in context but not in the library as FRA does not maintain this record. This document lives on another website.
- Document has not yet been assigned keywords.
- Document is historical and has been removed from library to avoid confusion with current publications.
- Document is public affairs & policy related, such as press releases, speeches, testimony, or fact sheet. These press-related documents can now be found in the FRA Newsroom.
- Document is related to rules and notices. This information can now be found on the Rulemakings search and the Notices search, respectively.
Technical Reports
LiDAR Grade Crossing Data Collection and Storage Services for High Profile Grade Crossings
Keywords: LIDAR; GRADE CROSSING; MOTORIST SAFETY; ATIP
Abstract: This report summarizes work performed to improve identification of high-profile grade crossings throughout the nation’s railway network. In May 2019 two rail survey vehicles...
Technical Reports
Evaluation of Habituation to Alerts in Locomotive Cabs
Keywords: Habituation; inattentional deafness; alarm fatigue; locomotive engineer; Positive Train Control; PTC; alerter; human factors
Abstract: From September 2019 to May 2022, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) funded KEA Technologies Inc. to conduct a pilot study using a rail simulator to determine whether...
Technical Reports
Advanced Track Geometry Forecasting Methods
Keywords: Prediction; forecast; track geometry; time series; degradation; Autonomous Track Geometry Measurement System; ATGMS
Abstract: The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) contracted ENSCO, Inc., to apply alternative forecasting approaches to foot-by-foot track geometry data. The research team used track...
Technical Reports
Improved Polymer Composite Tie Performance
Keywords: Composite ties, laboratory testing, in-track testing, performance and safety, maintenance practice
Abstract: For regions experiencing high rot and decay, engineered-polymer composite (EPC) ties offer a potential alternative to solid-sawn timber ties. However, these ties have a history...
Technical Reports
Expanding Summer Youth Programs in Rail through Virtual Learning and a National Campus Network – Phase I Report
Keywords: Railway engineering education, workforce development, online education, hybrid education
Abstract: FRA supported Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech), in collaboration with Pennsylvania State University Altoona (Penn State Altoona) and the University of Illinois...