The gauge rod is an essential fastener in the railway track system used to maintain the correct gauge between rails. It is typically installed between the rails or beneath the sleepers to keep the two rails at a fixed distance under longitudinal and lateral loads, thereby ensuring train operation safety and track geometric accuracy. When trains operate at high speeds, the rails are subjected to longitudinal and lateral forces. Without the restraint provided by gauge rods, the rails may experience lateral movement or gauge variation, leading to unstable train travel or even derailment risks.
Gauge rods are usually made of high-strength steel, offering excellent tensile strength and fatigue resistance. By closely engaging with the sleepers and rails, they effectively transfer the lateral forces generated by train loads to the sleepers and ballast, maintaining a stable spacing between the rails.
Additionally, gauge rods work in conjunction with fasteners such as rail clips, rail tie plates, rail pads, and fishplates to collectively distribute the stresses generated during train operation, reduce localized wear on the rails and sleepers, and enhance the overall service life of the track.
Gauge rod components
| No. | Part | Quantity | Specification | Material |
| 1 | rod | 1 | M30 M36 | 3# |
| 2 | iron card | 4 | I type II type | KTH350-10 |
| 3 | plain washer | 4 | M30 M36 | 3# |
| 4 | nut | 4 | M30 M36 | 3# |
| 5 | spring washer | 4 | M30 M36 | 65Mn |
Typical Railroad Gauge Rods from GNEE RAIL
Our hot sale products are double-ended gauge rods for non-insulated or insulated types. They are a typical gauge rod with 2 iron jaws, 2 flat washers, 2 nuts, and 2 spring washers on both ends.
- Application: 43,50,60,75kg/m rail
- Rail gauge: 600, 762, 900 and 1450.
- Diameter: 20, 22, 24, 28, 32, 36 etc.
- Specification: 20×870, 22×880, 22×1050, 24×1050, 24×1250, 28×1810, 28×1850, 32×1810, 32×1850, 36×1850