A rail fish plate is a jointing component that enables two rail lengths to share vertical, lateral, and longitudinal forces by mechanically linking their webs at the joint. This function is critical in non-welded rail systems. GNEE RAIL manufactures fish plates for UIC standard rails, GB light and heavy rails, BS11 sections, JIS profiles, AS1085 rails, AREMA/ASCE rail sizes, and heavy-duty crane rails under DIN536 and QU standards, offering complete joint hardware supply.
What are AREMA standard fishplates?
AREMA standard fishplates (also known as joint bars or splice bars) are metal connecting plates manufactured to meet the strict specifications of the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) for fastening rail ends together. Designed for stability, strength, and electrical continuity, they commonly fit standard North American rail sizes like 115RE, 119RE, 132RE, and 136RE, featuring 4 or 6 bolt holes for secure, bolted joints.
| Standard | Type | Length/Diameter | Weight /Material | |
| AREMA 2007 | 115RE | 4 hole-24" | 17.04Kg | 45# chemical |
| 115RE | 6 hole-36" | 25.56Kg | composition(%): | |
| 132-136RE | 4 hole-24" | 17.75Kg | C: 0.42-0.50 | |
| 132-136RE | 6 hole-36" | 26.63Kg | Mn: 0.50-0.80 |
Types:
- Standard Joints: Used for straight rails and routine, heavy-duty applications.
- Insulated Joint Bars: Used to maintain electrical isolation between rail sections for signaling systems.
- Compromise Joints: Used to connect rails of different sizes or profiles.
| Classification Category | Type of Rail Joint | Core Definition / Key Characteristics |
| By Position on Track | Square Joint | Joints on parallel rails are aligned opposite each other. Common on straight tracks; simple but causes more impact. |
| Staggered Joint | Joints on one rail are opposite the mid-point of the adjacent rail. Primarily used on curves to reduce forces and improve ride quality. | |
| By Position of Sleepers | Supported Joint | Rail ends rest directly on a single "joint sleeper". Minimizes deflection but creates a rigid, high-maintenance point. |
| Suspended Joint | Rail ends are located between two sleepers. The most common type; offers flexibility but requires more frequent maintenance. | |
| Bridge Joint | Similar to suspended, but uses a metal bridge plate to connect rails on either side of the joint. Not widely used. | |
| By Performance & Application | Ordinary (Bolted) Joint | Standard connection using fishplates and bolts. Cost-effective, allows for thermal expansion. |
| Compromise Joint | Connects two rails of different sizes/profiles. Uses specially shaped fishplates to ensure a smooth transition. | |
| Conductive Joint | Ensures electrical continuity between rail sections for traction current and signaling, using conductive materials. | |
| Insulated Joint (IRJ) | Electrically isolates rail sections for signaling systems. Uses insulating materials between rails and plates. | |
| Welded Joint | Rail ends are fused together (e.g., thermite welding). Creates Continuous Welded Rail (CWR) for a smoother, stronger track. | |
| Frozen Joint | A defective condition where tight or corroded fishplates prevent thermal expansion/contraction, leading to high stress. | |
| Expansion Joint (REJ) | Allows controlled longitudinal rail movement (e.g., on bridges) to prevent buckling or breakage due to temperature changes. |
Difference between AREMA 60A and 80A fishplates?
AREMA 60A and 80A fishplates (joint bars) are designed to connect specific rail profiles, with the primary difference being size and load capacity. 60A fishplates are designed for lighter, 60 lb/yd rails, often used in light-duty, industrial, or mining applications, while 80A fishplates fit heavier 80 lb/yd rails.
Rail Compatibility:
- 60A: Matches 60 lb/yd rail profiles (often 60R).
- 80A: Matches 80 lb/yd rail profiles (often 80A/80R).
Dimensions & Application: 60A is smaller and designed for lighter loads. 80A is heavier, providing better stability for heavier, industrial-grade traffic.
Hole Diameter: According to standard specifications, 60A fishplates typically have smaller bolt holes (approx. 20.64 mm) compared to 80A fishplates (approx. 23.81 mm).
Common Use: Both are used for joining rails to ensure continuous track, but 60A is for lighter applications while 80A serves higher loads.
Founded in 2008, GNEE RAIL is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of railway components, specializing in high-quality rail fish plates (joint bars/splice bars) with strong production capacity and global service capabilities.
Our rail fish plate portfolio is comprehensive and compliant with international standards including UIC, AREMA, BS, DIN, and GB, covering light rail (8kg-30kg), heavy rail (38kg-75kg), and crane rail (QU70-QU120) systems. We offer diverse types such as insulated joint bars, bulged fish plates, and compromise rail joints,with precise specifications (4-hole/6-hole, 24-inch/36-inch), ensuring excellent mechanical performance.We uphold strict quality control supported by ISO 9001:2015 certification, an in-house inspection center, and third-party audits by SGS and BV. Our one-stop service includes customization, production, packaging, and after-sales support, tailored to clients' project needs.
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