How to calibrate E rail elastic clip tension?

Dec 25, 2025 Leave a message

Rail elastic clip is one of the popular fastening parts to keep rail track fixed on rail sleepers(wooden sleeper and concrete sleeper). Rail clamps are also used in some rail fastening systems.

 

E-clip optimizes load-bearing capacity and integrates vibration damping, minimizing track settlement and maintenance frequency while delivering track stability under extreme conditions.

 

rail fasteners

 

Name E-type rail clip
Material 60Si2MnA 60Si2CrA 55Si2Mn 38Si7
Hardness 44-48HRC
Fatigue Life for Dia.18 is 3 millions cycles without breaking
for Dia.20 is 5 millions cycles without breaking
Surface plain (oiled), Oxide black, color painting or according to customer requirement
Standard DIN17221, BS970, GB/T1222

 

How to calibrate E rail elastic clip tension?

 

Calibrating E-rail clip tension isn't a field adjustment; it's about ensuring proper installation and condition, as tension comes from the clip's inherent spring steel design and deflection, not adjustment. You check for correct 11-14mm deflection during installation, ensuring contact points (clip, pad, rail) are clean and tight, and inspect for corrosion, damage, or missing components that reduce tension. Proper tension relies on the clip's manufacturing (hardness, material) and assembly, with force typically around 10kN, needing replacement if compromised.

 

rail fastening


Key Factors & Checks


Deflection is Key: The clip generates force when deflected; a lack of deflection (e.g., due to wear or missing parts) means no tension.


Nominal Force: Standard clips aim for a toe load (clamping force) of around 10kN (kilonewtons).


Material & Manufacturing: Hardness (40-48 HRC) and heat treatment are crucial; calibration is done at the factory, not trackside.

 

Material 60Si2MnA 60Si2CrA 55Si2Mn 38Si7
Chemical composition(%) C:0.56-0.64, Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.60-2.00, Cr:≤0.35, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 C:0.56-0.64, Mn:0.40-0.70, Si:1.40-1.80,Cr:0.70-1.00 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 C:0.52-0.60, Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.50-2.00,Cr:≤0.35 P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03 C:0.35-0.42, Mn:0.50-0.80, Si:1.50-1.80, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03

 

What to Do (Field Maintenance)


Verify Installation: Confirm the clip is correctly seated, making proper contact with the rail base and baseplate.


Check for Damage & Corrosion: Inspect clips for cracks, rust, or wear; corrosion significantly reduces force.


Inspect Pads/Liners: Ensure rail pads and nylon insulators are present and not worn, as they affect seating and tension.


Check Gauge/Fastener Fit: Ensure all components (tie plates, shoulders) are correctly positioned to allow for even stress distribution.

 

rail fastening

 

GNEE RAIL offer an extensive range of rail clips with optimum quality, these rail clips are designed with high precision and made up of premium grade spring steel. GNEE has been the largest and most competitive production base of rail clip in China after more than 18 years' rail clip producing experience, and have qualification to tender nationally large and medium scaled rail projects. What's more, our rail clip can be customized according to clients' requirements.

 

For more information – Get in touch now!