The number of bolts typically used for railway fishplates depends on the rail type, track grade, and design standards, but the common configurations are either 4 or 6 fish bolts per fishplate.
For heavy-haul railways (such as UIC60 rails, 50kg rails, etc.), 6 bolts are usually adopted to enhance the load-bearing capacity and stability of the joint. The bolt holes are evenly distributed on each side of the fishplate to ensure balanced force distribution and reduce stress concentration. In contrast, light rails or some secondary tracks may use only 4 bolts for fishplate fixation, though this configuration offers slightly lower load-bearing capacity and fatigue resistance.
Fish bolts (rail joint bolts) not only secure the fishplate to the rail but also maintain tight joint alignment, preventing loosening and rail gap movement during train operation. During installation, the bolts must be used with flat washers and spring washers and tightened to the specified torque to prevent loosening due to vibration and thermal stress. Insufficient bolt quantity or uneven distribution can directly compromise joint strength, increasing the risk of rail fractures and derailments.
GNEE RAIL manufactures fishplates and matching fish bolts in compliance with UIC, AREMA, or customer-specified standards, ensuring high hole-positioning accuracy and sufficient material strength for a tight rail connection. In addition to fishplates and fish bolts, GNEE RAIL supplies a wide range of railway fasteners, including rail clips (such as SKL, Nabla, and E Clip types), screw spikes, dog spikes, rail bolts and nuts, rail pads, gauge rods, rail braces, and rail clamps. Customized designs and installation technical support are also available. Contact GNEE for high-quality railway fasteners.
