Key Factors in Selecting Fishplates
What core factors determine the model of fish plates?
The model of fish plates is mainly determined by the rail model, which must be accurately matched with the size of the rails to be connected. Gauge is a key factor, and different gauges require fish plates to have corresponding length and hole layout. The size of train load affects model selection. Heavy-haul lines require thicker and higher-strength fish plates. The connection method also affects the model. Fish plates for bolted connection and welded connection have different structures. Industry standards and specifications clarify the model requirements under different scenarios, and selection must strictly follow them.
What are the differences between fish plates for light rails and heavy rails?
Fish plates for light rails are thinner, and the material is mostly ordinary medium carbon steel, which can meet the requirements of light loads. Fish plates for heavy rails are thicker, made of high-strength alloy steel, with better tensile and fatigue resistance. Light rail fish plates have fewer bolt holes and smaller spacing, while heavy rail fish plates have more to ensure sufficient connection strength. The structural design of heavy rail fish plates pays more attention to stress distribution to avoid stress concentration at joints. The dimensional parameters such as length and width of the two are also clearly distinguished according to different rail specifications and cannot be mixed.
What should be noted when selecting fish plates for small-radius curve lines?
Fish plates for small-radius curve lines must have higher lateral bearing capacity to cope with the lateral force when the train turns. Materials with better toughness should be selected to avoid fracture under lateral stress. The hole design of the fish plate must be adapted to the angle of the rail in the curve section to ensure tight connection. It is necessary to increase the number of bolt fastenings or adopt a reinforced structure to improve connection stability. Attention should also be paid to the compatibility with fasteners in the curve section to ensure uniform overall stress and reduce joint deformation.
What special points should be paid attention to when selecting fish plates for transnational railway projects?
It is necessary to confirm the rail standard adopted in the project and select fish plates suitable for national standard or foreign standard rails. The gauge standards of different countries should be considered to ensure that the hole positions and lengths of the fish plates meet the requirements. It is necessary to verify the compatibility of the fish plates with foreign fasteners, such as whether the bolt specifications match. It is necessary to meet the industry standards and certification requirements of the country where the project is located to ensure product access. The local climate environment should also be considered, and materials with suitable corrosion resistance and aging resistance should be selected.
What test verifications are required before selecting fish plates?
A dimensional adaptation test is required to ensure that the fit gap with rails and bolts meets the requirements. Strength test is the core, and it is necessary to verify that the tensile strength and fatigue resistance meet the standards. A load simulation test should be carried out to simulate the impact force of train operation and inspect the connection stability. Corrosion test is essential to ensure that the service life in outdoor environments meets the standards. An installation compatibility test is also required to verify the adaptability with installation tools and construction processes.