What is the clamping force of Rail Clips?

The clamping force of rail clips varies significantly based on the specific fastening system, but generally ranges from 7.5 to 12.5 kN (750 to 1250 kgf) per clip, with European standards requiring a minimum of 7 kN for mainlines and 9 kN for high-speed and heavy-freight lines. Some specialized systems like E-clips can exert up to 900–1100 kgf per clip, and crane rail clamps, which are a different system, have much higher clamping forces. The force is adjusted based on factors like rail weight, expected loads, and environmental conditions.

Typical clamping force ranges General range:

• Most systems offer a clamping force per clip between 7.5 and 12.5 kN.

• Standard requirements: European standards require a minimum clamping force of 7 kN for most main lines and 9 kN for high-speed or heavy-freight lines.

• Specific examples:

Some E-clips have a clamping force of 900–1100 kgf per clip.

A specific calculation for UIC 54 rail showed a minimum required force of 915.71 kgf per clip.

Factors influencing clamping force

• Fastening system type: Different systems, like E-clips and others, have different clamping force capabilities.

• Track application: The required force varies for different applications (e.g., high-speed versus main line).

• Customer requirements: Specific customer needs can influence the final clamping force.

• Rail and environmental conditions: The clamping force is designed to accommodate expected loads, the weight of the rail, and atmospheric conditions.

Varieties of Elastic Rail Clips

As an OEM & OBM manufacturer, GNEE RAIL is capable of not only producing a wide range of internationally common types of rail clips, such as W Tension Clamp, e-Clip, Fast-Clip, SKL Tension Clamp, Nabla Blade, etc., but also customizing products tailored to our customers' specific requirements.

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