The Role of the Fishplate
While the rail fishplate may be a small accessory on the entire turnout, it is also a vital component of the railway track system, playing an important role in the railway track system. Rail fishplates are classified into different types based on various models and materials, and the suitable type should be chosen according to different application environments and specific needs. The fishplate connects two rail ends, transferring the loads across the joint and maintaining the continuity of the track.
The Structure of the Fishplate
The fishplate structure features a central threaded hole, with upper and lower working surfaces on both sides along the horizontal axis of the threaded hole that come into contact with the lower part of the railhead and the upper part of the rail base, respectively. The rear part of the upper working surface extends upwards to form a transitional section higher than the rail surface. The working surfaces are machined to fit the rail profile, and the threaded hole receives the joint bolt that clamps the plate against the rail web.
The Bridge Arch Design
Along the length of the fishplate, a bridge arch shape is formed with higher, middle and lower ends. The bridge-shaped fishplate structure is simple, reducing the impact on the rail joint by the wheels, enhancing the continuity of longitudinal deformation at the joint, and improving the comfort of train travel. The arch shape distributes the bending load along the joint and reduces the stress concentration at the rail ends.
Safety Components of the Joint
To ensure the overall safety of railway turnouts, the joint is composed of safety components in various parts. The bolts, washers and, for insulated joints, the insulating components all contribute to the safety of the connection. Despite being a small accessory, the fishplate plays a crucial role in railway turnouts, and for the normal operation of railway turnouts, it is necessary to inspect and maintain the fishplate.
Selection and Customization
Fishplates are manufactured to match the rail model and the standard, with the working surfaces and bolt hole spacing defined by the rail section. Customized solutions are available to meet the specific needs of clients, ensuring compliance with international standards. The correct fishplate model is selected by the rail section and the joint type, and the material and strength class are matched to the service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the working surfaces of a fishplate? The fishplate features a central threaded hole, with upper and lower working surfaces on both sides along the horizontal axis. The upper surface contacts the lower part of the railhead and the lower surface contacts the rail base.
What is the bridge arch design? long the length of the fishplate, a bridge arch shape is formed with higher, middle and lower ends. The simple structure reduces the impact on the rail joint by the wheels and enhances the strength of the joint.
Why is the fishplate important despite being small? It is a vital component of the railway track system: it connects the rail ends and maintains the continuity and safety of the joint, playing an important role in the overall turnout.
How is the fishplate fixed? By joint bolts through the threaded holes, with washers and, for insulated joints, insulating components. The bolts, washers and insulators all contribute to the safety of the joint.
How is the fishplate type selected? By the rail model, the joint type and the service conditions. Fishplates are manufactured to match the rail section, with the working surfaces and bolt hole spacing defined by the standard.
