Functions of the railway fastenings
Fixing rails
The rail fastening system securely fastens the rails to the sleepers or track plates using a variety of parts to stop the railroad track from slipping or deflecting,
Withstanding train loads
To prevent undue strain on the sleepers, the rail fastener system must be able to sustain the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical forces produced by the train’s operation while also distributing these forces uniformly to the sleepers.
Providing elasticity and buffering
There will be collision and vibration between the train wheels and rails. By using elastic components (such as spring fasteners and track gaskets) to absorb these dynamic loads, the railway fastener system lessens damage to the sleepers and rails while enhancing ride comfort.
Anti-fatigue
The design of the fastener system requires long-term anti-fatigue performance. Also, the ability to maintain stable fixing forces in complex environments is needed.
Fixtures and fastenings in railway
Rail clip
Rail clip is an elastic material fixing railroad tracks to railway sleepers to absorb shock and provide long-term protection of the railroad tracks. The main types of rail clips are as follows.
- E type clip
- SKL
- Specially designed clips
- Customized rail clips
Baseplates
A railway baseplate is inserted between the foot of a rail and the sleeper. It supports and distributes the rail load to ensure the stability and safety of the rail system. The main functions of the iron plate include vibration reduction, load distribution, impact bearing, and extended service life.
Rail pads
Rail pads are made of rubber. It is mainly installed between the rail and the concrete sleeper. Its main functions include buffering, shock absorption, electrical insulation, and noise reduction. It can cushion the high-speed vibration and impact of the vehicle when it passes through the rail, protect the roadbed and sleeper, and electrically insulate the signal system. In addition, it also has good resistance to natural aging, cold resistance, and heat resistance, especially when used in the subway, and can significantly reduce noise.
- Rubber pad
- EVA pad
- TPEE pad
- HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pad
Track Bolts
Bolts are mainly used to connect tracks and turnout equipment or to fix sleepers to other track components. Common types of bolts include fish bolts, spike bolts, etc.
Hexagon bolt
T-head track bolt
HS-T-head track bolt
Rail Joints
Rail joints connect the end of the separated length of railroad tracks to keep the rails stable so that trains can run safely. It is designed to improve the smoothness of passing trains by
reducing the impacts from wheels.
- Bolted joints
- Compromise joints
- Insulated rail joints
Spikes And Screws
Spikes and screws are traditionally used in wooden sleeper systems. Although less used nowadays due to the low rate of wooden sleepers, they are still valuable on some special lines.
- Dog spikes
- Screw spikes
Rail Insulator
A rail insulator is in charge of regulating the gauge and the current flowing between the ground and the insulated rail. The elasticity and rigidity of the railroad track’s regular operation and the railway’s dependability and stability are guaranteed.
Rail Shoulder
The rail shoulder is a semi-embedded part used to fix elastic rail clips to concrete sleepers to prevent the movement of railroad tracks under impacts.
Gauge Rods
A gauge rod is a type of track material that increases the rail’s lateral stability to maintain the track in gauge. It is a necessary railroad track reinforcing attachment. Gauge rods are mostly applied at weak points in straight tracks, curved tracks, switches, bad ties, etc. Placing under the parallel rails, can grip the rails and prevent them from spreading or tilting.
Design features of railway fastenings
Railway fasteners must be designed to meet several technical requirements for stable performance and long life.
High strength and durability: Fasteners must be able to withstand long-term impact and vibration. At the same time, stable performance is required under various climatic conditions.
Elasticity and vibration reduction performance: Elastic design can effectively reduce noise and vibration during train movement. Also, passenger comfort is improved.
Corrosion resistance: To extend their service life, fasteners are typically made of corrosion-resistant materials (like hot-dip galvanized steel or polymer synthetic materials);
Convenient installation and maintenance: Modern fastener systems are made to simplify the installation and maintenance process and lower operating costs.
Installation methods of railway fastenings
A crucial step in the process of laying railroad tracks is the installation of railway fasteners.
Common installation steps:
1. Preparation: Make sure there is no dirt or damage by inspecting the rails and sleepers. Get all the fastening tools ready.
2. Component assembly: Assemble the parts in the correct order as specified by the design.
3. Tightening and adjustment: To guarantee that the fasteners offer enough gripping power and simultaneously adjust the track gauge, tighten the bolts using specialized equipment.
4. Testing and inspection: Examine the track system thoroughly to make sure all fasteners are in place and secure.
The latest development trend in railway fasteners
As railway technology continues to advance, railway fasteners are changing to be more ecologically friendly and efficient.
Intelligent fasteners
In recent years, intelligent fasteners have gradually emerged as a research focus. Due to the sensors that are included in these fasteners, it is possible to track the track’s movement and stress in real-time and identify possible issues early on.
Novel materials
To create lighter and more resilient fasteners, high-performance composites and high-strength metals are taking the place of conventional materials.
Adopt modular design
Modular fastener systems can adjust to various track conditions and cut down on installation time and expense.
Recyclability and green manufacturing
Manufacturers of fasteners focus more on environmental concerns, working on creating recyclable fastener goods, and improving procedures to lower carbon emissions.
Railway fasteners, a crucial component of the track system, have a direct impact on the railway’s operational efficiency and safety. The design and use of railway fasteners will open up new development opportunities as intelligence and new material technologies advance. Industry customers should select the best fastening system by carefully weighing line conditions, environmental requirements, and maintenance costs.
