The connection of railway rails is a critical aspect of track structure, ensuring the safety and smooth operation of trains. This is typically achieved through various fasteners and connection technologies that guarantee rail continuity and stability. Traditionally, rails are connected using fishplates. The ends of two rail sections are cut flat and placed side-by-side, with the fishplate covering both sides of the rail joint. It is then tightened using bolts, creating a firm longitudinal connection between the rails.
The fishplate not only secures the rail position but also transmits the longitudinal tension and shear forces generated by train operation, preventing rail displacement or excessive gap formation, thereby maintaining gauge accuracy and track geometric stability.
Rail Joints of International Standards
AREMA 2007
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 115RE | 4 hole-24″ | 17.04Kg |
| 115RE | 6 hole-36″ | 25.56Kg |
| 132-136RE | 4 hole-24″ | 17.75Kg |
| 132-136RE | 6 hole-36″ | 26.63Kg |
UIC 864
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| UIC60 | 4 hole-630/Φ26 | 18.07Kg |
| UIC60 | 4 hole-600/Φ28 | 17.47Kg |
| UIC60 | 4 hole-630/Φ25 | 18.1Kg |
| UIC54 | 4 hole | 14.34Kg |
| UIC54 | 6 hole-800 | 19.94Kg |
BS 47-1
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| BS75R | 4 hole | 6.56Kg |
| BS60A | 4 hole | 5.61Kg |
| BS80A | 4 hole | 6.5Kg |
| BS90A | 685.8/Φ26 | 13.23Kg |
| BS90A | 792.9/Φ26.2 | 15.34Kg |
| BS100A | 4 hole |
AS
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 50kg | 4 hole | 14.3Kg |
| 50kg | 6 hole | 19.5Kg |
Regarding the connection between the rails and sleepers, the railway fastening system plays a synergistic role. The rail is pressed against the sleeper or the rail tie plate by a rail clip or a rail spike (screw spike), while a rail pad is laid under the rail base to distribute pressure, dampen vibrations, and provide shock isolation. Bolts and nuts are used to reinforce the fishplate and rail tie plate, ensuring the entire system remains tightly connected without loosening when trains pass.
GNEE RAIL supplies a full range of railway fastener products, including Fishplates, Rail Clips, Rail Pads, Rail Tie Plates, Rail Bolts, and Crane Rail Clips.
Click here to obtain the detailed product catalog of GNEE RAIL.
