When the road wheels roll over the inside of the track, the rubber backing pads are compressed under the wheels, generating heat in the rubber.

The build-up of excess heat  in the rubber pads will soften the rubber and accelerate its abrasion, wear, and "chunking", damaging the track.
*******************************
Track life and durability are critical cost issues.  Longer track life translates into reduced maintenance costs and less down-time.