The RailTest software package, developed by ZETA-TECH Associates, Inc. is a comprehensive ultrasonic testing frequency scheduling program that utilizes actual railroad data to forecast the frequency with which rail segments should be tested ultrasonically. The system makes use of the extensive research performed by the Federal Department of Transportation, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center and ZETA-TECH Associates, Inc.

The primary inputs to the system are defect and tonnage history for each section of track for which the test frequency is to be determined. The test frequency for a given segment can be determined based on the defects located on that segment (by service and detected defects), the tonnage carried over the segment, and the historical test frequency.

The user interface of the system (shown in the center) provides the user with several options for editing, viewing, analyzing, and reporting the data. The system is designed to utilize a predefined segmentation file of track segments that are sufficiently long to allow for practical test scheduling. These segments are then further broken down based on large changes in annual tonnage, rail section, and installation year, as well as other major factors that influence rail test scheduling.

Using the resulting segmentation file, each segment is processed by locating the defects that have occurred on the segment for a given time frame (last year). Based on an acceptable level of risk (service defects per mile per year/test), the resulting service and detected defect rates, and the historical test frequency, a forecast test frequency is determined that insures the risk factor is constrained.

RailTest allows the user to select those defect types which control test scheduling such that the system utilizes only that class of defects. In addition the level of risk can be edited as well as several other parameters to allow for sensitivity analyses to be performed. In addition, a constant segment length can be defined that breaks individual segment up into smaller segments for analysis purposes. This allows the user to obtain a clear picture of defect clusters as they normally occur in track.

The user interface has several key features that allow the user to easily view analysis progress and results. On the right side of the screen, a view frame is available that allows the user to observe the status of the analysis including, the current segment, current rail data, and sub-segment window (for cluster analysis). Should the user wish to review input and/or output files, a database view window is available that allows the user to view and/or edit the database.

Reports can be generated by the system that provide a clear tabular presentation of the analysis results and testing requirements for each defined segment.

RailTest is a native 32 bit Windows™ application that makes use of the Microsoft Access relational database to store all input and output data. This provides a consistent and easy to use method for maintaining data.