A rail clip is an elastic fastener that transforms its spring deflection into continuous clamping pressure, holding the rail securely against pads and baseplates while managing vibration and impact from passing vehicles. It is essential for fastening durability. GNEE RAIL offers SKL1–SKL15 clips, Nabla clips, Fast Clip, PR clips, E-type clips, and heavy-duty crane rail clips, compatible with GB, UIC, DIN536, JIS, AS1085, BS11, and AREMA/ASCE track systems, and provides fastening system integration services.
Types of Elastic Rail Clip:
Elastic rail clips are specialized, high-strength spring steel fasteners (commonly 60Si2MnA) designed to secure rails to sleepers, absorbing vibration and maintaining gauge. Key types include E-type, SKL, Nabla, PR, Deenik, and fast clips, which are selected based on track load, speed, and national standards.
| Series | Type | Hardness | Material | Fatigue life | Surface | Standard |
| E rail clip | E1,E2,E3 | 44-48HRC | 60Si2MnA: C:0.56-0.64,Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.60-2.00,Cr:≤0.35, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 60Si2CrA: C:0.56-0.64,Mn:0.40-0.70, Si:1.40-1.80,Cr:0.70-1.00 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 55Si2Mn: C:0.52-0.60,Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.50-2.00,Cr:≤0.35 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 38Si7:C:0.35-0.42,Mn:0.50-0.80, Si:1.50-1.80, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 |
For Dia.18 is 3 million cycles without breaking. For Dia.20 is 5 million cycles without breaking. |
plain (oiled), Oxide black, color painting or according to customer requirement. | DIN17221, BS970, GB/T1222 |
| E1609 | ||||||
| E1809 | ||||||
| E1817 | ||||||
| E2001 | ||||||
| E2006 | ||||||
| E2009 | ||||||
| E2055 | ||||||
| E2056 | ||||||
| Vossloh clip&Forged rail clip | SKL1 | 42-47HRC | ||||
| PR rail clip | PR309 | 44-48HRC | ||||
| PR401 | ||||||
| PR601 | ||||||
| PR85 | ||||||
| Customized production of rail clips are available according to your drawings or samples! | ||||||
Are Spring Clips the Key to Improved Railway Durability?
Yes, spring clips (or elastic rail clips) are a key component for improving railway durability, stability, and safety. They securely fasten rails to sleepers, absorb significant vibration and impact loads, prevent track misalignment, and reduce maintenance needs by resisting fatigue from heavy, high-speed traffic.
Key Reasons Spring Clips Enhance Railway Durability:
- Vibration Dampening: They absorb shocks from passing trains, reducing wear and tear on track components.
- Maintains Gauge and Alignment: By preventing lateral and longitudinal movement, they keep tracks stable, reducing the risk of derailment.
- Fatigue Resistance: High-quality clips are designed to endure millions of load cycles (bending, torsion, and corrosion).
- Enhanced Service Life: Modern, durable materials and designs allow for longer service life and reduced maintenance, which lowers costs.
- Adaptability: They are suitable for various conditions, including high-speed and heavy-load lines.
What is the material of ERC clip?
Elastic Rail Clips (ERC) are primarily manufactured from high-grade, hot-forged silico-manganese spring steel, specifically complying with grade 55Si7 according to IS:3195 specifications. These clips are designed to fasten rails to sleepers, providing essential elasticity and strength. They are heat-treated for durability and often coated to resist corrosion.
Key Material Details and Usage:
- Material Composition: Silico-manganese spring steel (e.g., 55Si7 grade) is used to ensure high yield strength and fatigue resistance.
| Material | 60Si2MnA | 60Si2CrA | 55Si2Mn | 38Si7 |
| Chemical composition(%) | C:0.56-0.64, Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.60-2.00, Cr:≤0.35, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 | C:0.56-0.64, Mn:0.40-0.70, Si:1.40-1.80,Cr:0.70-1.00 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 | C:0.52-0.60, Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.50-2.00,Cr:≤0.35 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 | C:0.35-0.42, Mn:0.50-0.80, Si:1.50-1.80, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 |
- Manufacturing Method: Hot-forming/forging, followed by hardening and tempering.
- Synonyms/Related Terms: Elastic rail clip, railway elastic clip, 55Si7 steel clip, rail fastening clip, spring steel rail clip, ERC J-clip.
- Usage: Securing rails to concrete or wooden sleepers, vibration dampening, and accommodating thermal expansion on railway tracks.
GNEE RAIL as the largest rail clip and clamp production base in China, which has been qualified to tender medium and large scaled railway projects. In addition, GNEE RAIL is approved elastic rail clip manufacturer by China's Railway Ministry and has been ISO9001-2008 certified. Our rail clip product is ideal for rail track assembly for advantages of easy fitment while track laying; economical maintenance; long durability and lifespan; fast replacement.
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