Rail Pad (track pad) is a key elastic cushioning component in the railway fastening system. Installed between the bottom of the rail and the sleeper/tie plate, its core function is to absorb vibration and impact generated by train passage, evenly distribute rail loads to the sleeper, reduce direct friction and wear between the rail and sleeper, and provide fundamental elastic support for the track system. Its thickness typically ranges from 8–20 mm, selected based on track type and load requirements. As a core foundational component that ensures track smoothness and extends the service life of sleepers and rails, it is widely used in various rail transit lines.
| Raw Material | Rubber, EVA, TPEE, HDPE |
| Standard | UIC, AREMA, TB/T2626-95 |
| Application | 43kg/m, 50kg/m, 60kg/m, 75kg/m,115RE, UIC54, UIC60, S49 |
| Model number | 43-7-7, 43-10-7, 50-7-9, 50-10-9, 60-10-17, 60-12-17 |
| Operating temperature | -50~70 degrees |
| Certificate | MSDS, ROHS, REACH |
| Notes | They should be stored in a clean, ventilated place. Don't be in direct sunlight, and keep away from the heat source and chemical reagent. Don't touch the oil, organic solvent, and other chemicals. Banned exposure. |
Which rail models are rail pads compatible with?
Rail pads are versatile and compatible with many models like UIC (50, 54, 60), BS (80lbs, 100lbs), JIS (37, 50, 60), and QU (70, 80, 120), as well as specific heavy haul (e.g., 115RE, 136RE) and crane rails, using materials like EVA, HDPE, rubber, or polyurethane to match rail type, load, and environmental needs, requiring customization for exact fit.
Common Rail Models
- UIC Series: UIC 50, UIC 54, UIC 60 (common for general and high-speed).
- British Standard (BS): BS80lbs, BS100lbs.
- Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS): JIS37, JIS50, JIS60.
- Quenouille (QU): QU70, QU80, QU120 (often for crane rails).
- American/Heavy Haul: 115RE, 136RE.
- Crane Rails: A65, A100, A120, as well as UIC types.
Compatibility depends on matching the rail's profile (UIC, BS, etc.) and the specific load/environment (heavy haul, urban, high-speed) to the correct pad material and design (grooved, thickness, hardness).
What is the function of a railroad pad?
- Vibration & Noise Dampening: Absorbs high-frequency vibrations and reduces the loud noise from passing trains, creating a quieter and smoother ride.
- Load Distribution: Spreads the concentrated weight from train wheels over a larger surface area of the sleeper, preventing stress and damage.
- Wear Reduction: Minimizes abrasion and impact stress on both the rail and the concrete sleeper, prolonging the life of the track components.
- Impact Absorption: Cushions the shock from train movement, protecting the track structure from sudden impacts.
- Electrical Insulation: Provides insulation, which is crucial for track signaling and information systems.
- Accommodation: Compensates for slight irregularities between the rail and the sleeper, ensuring consistent contact.
As a professional rail fastener manufacturer, GNEE RAIL can produce various types of rubber rail pads with different materials, such as natural rubber, EVA, HDPE and so on. In railway fastening system, rubber rail pads are often installed between the rail tracks and the concrete railway sleepers.
