What Is a Fast Rail Elastic Clip?
The fast rail elastic clip is designed with a captive system that keeps the clip in position before and during installation. This product is specially offered for mechanized track renewals that use automated clipping machines or hand tools. The clip is manufactured in the shape of an M and is driven into position at right angles to the rail. It is specially provided for a 26 t axle load, and the fast clip can also be produced for heavy-haul rail with an axle load of up to 40 t.
FC1500 and FC1600 Comparison
Two types of fast rail elastic clips are available: FC1500 and FC1600. They differ mainly in clamping force and resistance to longitudinal rail movement.
| Parameter | FC1500 | FC1600 |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal buckle pressure | 1000 kgf | 1250 kgf |
| Buckle pressure | over 16 kN | over 20 kN |
| Rail resistance to climbing | over 7 kN | over 9 kN |
| Insulation resistance | over 5 kohm | over 5 kohm |
Components of the Fast Clip Fastening System
The fast clip rail fastening system consists of four main components per fastening position. The rail clip, four pieces per set, is made of spring steel 60Si2MnA. The insert shoulder, four pieces per set, is made of ductile iron QT450-10. The rail insulator, four pieces per set, is made of nylon 66 reinforced with 30 percent glass fiber, which provides the electrical insulation between the rail and the shoulder. The rail pad, two pieces per set, is made of rubber, EVA or HDPE material and cushions the rail foot.
Other Elastic Clip Types
Round-bar elastic clips are widely used in South America and other markets, supplied in diameters from 12 mm to 25 mm with toe loads from about 200 kgf to 1500 kgf, made of spring steel 60Si2MnA. Fast-type clips are produced from 60Si2MnA and can be supplied with plain, black or red surface finishes, packed in wooden boxes. E-type rail elastic clips are the most common family, including models such as E1609, E1809, E1813, E2001, E2007, E2009, E2039, E2055, E2056 and E2063, with diameters from 16 mm to 20 mm, under pressure of at least 950 kg, hardness of 44 to 48 HRC and weights from 0.43 kg to 0.80 kg per piece.
Application and Installation Points
The fast clip system is designed for lines where fast, mechanized installation is required, such as track renewal projects and heavy-haul routes. During installation, the clip is driven at right angles to the rail with an automated clipping machine or a hand tool, and the captive design prevents the clip from being displaced before locking. Confirm the axle load class, the rail profile and the sleeper type before selecting FC1500 or FC1600, and check the insulation resistance requirement of the signaling system.
Maintenance Considerations
Fast clips are low-maintenance because their elastic clamping does not rely on bolts that can loosen. During inspection, check that all clips are fully seated in the shoulder, look for broken or deformed clips, and replace damaged parts with components of the same type and material. Keep the rail pad and insulator in good condition so that the system retains its clamping force and insulation properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between FC1500 and FC1600? FC1600 provides higher clamping force, about 1250 kgf nominal versus 1000 kgf, and higher resistance to rail climbing.
What axle loads can the fast clip handle? The system is designed for a 26 t axle load and can be produced for heavy-haul rail up to 40 t.
What is the fast clip made of? The clip is made of spring steel 60Si2MnA, with ductile iron shoulders and glass-fiber-reinforced nylon insulators.
How is the fast clip installed? It is driven at right angles to the rail using an automated clipping machine or a hand tool.
Does the fast clip system need bolting? No, the elastic clip locks into the shoulder by its own spring force, which keeps maintenance simple.
