superelevation

superelevation

A train travels safely around a curved track with superelevation.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The banking of a road or railway track: "superelevation" refers to the practice of raising the outer edge of a road or railway track on a curve to counteract the centrifugal force experienced by vehicles or trains, ensuring stability and safety at higher speeds.
    • The degree of such banking: It also denotes the measured height difference between the inner and outer edges of the curve, typically expressed as a slope or angle.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The engineers designed a superelevation of 6 inches on the highway curve to prevent cars from skidding. (The outer edge was raised by 6 inches to improve safety.)
    • On sharp railway bends, proper superelevation is critical to reduce the risk of derailment. (The banking of the track is essential for train stability.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Superelevation rate": the specific gradient or percentage of banking applied to a curve.

    • The superelevation rate for this racetrack is 12%, allowing cars to maintain high speeds. (The slope is 12% of the curve's width.)

  • "Design superelevation": the calculated optimal banking for a given curve radius and vehicle speed.

    • The design superelevation must account for both passenger comfort and traction. (The planned banking balances safety and ride quality.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Superelevated (adj): having a raised outer edge.

    • The superelevated curve on the mountain road allowed trucks to navigate safely. (The road was banked for stability.)

  • Elevation (n): the height of a point relative to a reference level; a broader term related to "superelevation."

    • The elevation of the track's outer rail is increased on curves. (The height difference is part of superelevation design.)
Synonyms

  • Banking: the act of tilting a surface to one side.

    • The banking of the track helps vehicles turn smoothly. (A synonym for superelevation in civil engineering.)

  • Cant: the slope or tilt of a surface, especially in road or rail design.

    • The cant on this curve is 4 degrees. (Another term for superelevation, common in railway contexts.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • No common phrasal verbs are associated with "superelevation" as it is a technical noun.
Related Idioms
  • No idioms include "superelevation" due to its specialized engineering usage.