Rail Fish Plate
| Category | Parameter | Description / Specification | Notes / Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Information | Product Name | Fish Plate / Joint Bar | The standard term for a rail joint splice. |
| Primary Function | To splice two ends of rails together in a joint, maintaining alignment and transmitting forces. | A critical safety component for jointed track. | |
| Application | Jointed Railway Tracks (e.g., secondary lines, yards) and Rail Breaks. | Largely replaced by CWR in mainlines but still essential for expansion joints, insulated joints, and repairs. | |
| Design & Types | Style | Double Shoulder (Most Common) or Single Shoulder. | Double shoulder provides better grip and stability. |
| Type | Standard / Compromise (for connecting different rail sections) / Insulated (with nylon or composite insert). | Insulated types break the electrical circuit for signaling. | |
| Physical Dimensions | Length | Varies by rail size (e.g., 600mm, 800mm for 60kg rail). | Covers a sufficient length of the rail web to distribute load. |
| Hole Quantity | Typically 4 or 6 holes (2 or 3 per side). | Matches the number of bolts used. | |
| Hole Diameter | Slightly larger than fish bolt diameter (e.g., 36mm for a 30mm bolt). | Allows for minor adjustment during installation. | |
| Section Height & Width | Precisely machined to match the rail profile (web thickness). | Ensures a snug fit against the rail web. |
Key Terminology & Notes:
Purpose: The fish plate's job is to hold the two rail ends in perfect vertical and horizontal alignment and to help transmit bending moments and forces across the joint. However, the joint remains the weakest point in the track.
The "Fish" Name: The name comes from the shape of early, simpler versions, which were thought to resemble a fish's outline.
Weakness of Jointed Track: Despite fish plates, joints create impact and noise as wheels pass over, leading to higher maintenance costs for the track structure itself. This is why Continuous Welded Rail (CWR) is preferred for high-speed and main lines.
gnee-professional supplier
Hot Tags: steel fish plate, China steel fish plate manufacturers, suppliers, factory, compromise splice bar, insulated rail joint specification, joint bar, normal fish plate, rail bolt, types of fish plate in railway
