Fishplates, also called rail joint bars or splice bars, are used to connect rails at joints. They offer a simpler and more labor-efficient alternative to rail welding technology. Fishplates are easy and quick to install and are typically used together with fish bolts and nuts. They are classified into light rail, heavy rail and insulated categories, and each rail size has a matching fishplate model.
How a Fishplate Joint Works
The fishplate has a central section with bolt holes. Along the horizontal axis of the holes there are upper working surfaces that contact the lower part of the rail head and lower working surfaces that contact the upper part of the rail base. The rear section of the upper working surface extends upward to form a transitional segment higher than the rail surface. This creates a bridge-like arch with the middle higher than the ends. The arched design reduces the impact of wheels on rail joints, improves the continuity of longitudinal rail deformation at the joint and enhances running smoothness and operational stability.
Types by Service Load
Light Rail Fishplate
Also known as splice bars for light rail, these are used for light railway lines, industrial sidings and tram tracks with small rail sections.
Heavy Rail Fishplate
Also referred to as oblique joint splice bars for crane rails, these are used for heavy rail and crane runway systems where larger sections and higher loads are present.
Insulated Fishplate
Insulated fishplates are manufactured entirely from high-strength composite materials. Key features include corrosion resistance, rust resistance, UV resistance, non-conductivity and non-magnetic properties. As a thermosetting material, an insulated fishplate cannot be reprocessed, which also makes it resistant to theft.
Fishplate Types by Rail Size
Fishplate models are available for the following rail sizes in kg per meter: 8, 9, 12, 15, 18, 22, 24, 30, 38, 43, 50, 60 and 75. Always match the fishplate to the exact rail section, bolt hole pattern and standard of the track system.
| Rail Group | Rail Sizes, kg/m |
|---|---|
| Light rail | 8, 9, 12, 15, 18, 22, 24, 30 |
| Heavy rail | 38, 43, 50, 60, 75 |
Advantages of Fishplate Joints
Simple and quick installation without welding equipment
Removable and reusable for maintenance and repair
Lower initial cost than welded joints
Suitable for temporary lines, yards and turnouts
Selection Notes
Select the joint type according to rail weight, traffic speed, axle load and signaling requirements. Use a standard fishplate for identical rail sections, a compromise bar when joining two different sections, and an insulated fishplate where electrical separation of track circuits is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a fishplate and a joint bar? They are the same component; fishplate, joint bar and splice bar are different names for the steel bar that connects two rail ends.
Why is the fishplate shaped like an arch? The arched transitional section reduces wheel impact at the joint and improves the continuity of rail deformation for smoother running.
What is an insulated fishplate? It is made of high-strength composite material that is non-conductive and non-magnetic, used where track circuits must be electrically separated.
Which rail sizes can use fishplate joints? Fishplates are available for rail sections from 8 kg/m to 75 kg/m.
Are fishplate joints easier to maintain than welded joints? Yes, bolted fishplate joints can be removed, adjusted and replaced more easily than welded joints.
