The rail pad is a critical elastic component in the rail fastening system, positioned between the rail and sleeper. Its main purposes are to provide cushioning, vibration isolation, electrical insulation, and protection. Rail pads are typically made of EVA, rubber, TPU, HDPE, or composite materials, designed to absorb and distribute the dynamic loads generated during train operation, thereby extending the service life of the rail track.
Rail Pad Different Material Mechanical Property

Mechanical properties of HDPE Rail Pad
| Technical Parameter | Unit | Technical Requirement | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | g/cm3 | 0.95-0.98 | 0.95 |
| Tensile Strength | Mpa | ≥19 | 19 |
| Elongation | % | >80 | 150 |
| Melting Point | ℃ | 170-190 | 190 |
| Insulation Resistance | Ω | ≥1×1010 | 3.5 ×1010 |
| Hardness | A | ≥98 | 98(A) |
Mechanical properties of EVA Rail Pad
| Technical Parameter | Unit | Technical Requirement | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | g/cm3 | 0.95-0.98 | 0.95 |
| Tensile Strength | Mpa | ≥15 | 16 |
| Elongation | % | >500 | 550 |
| Melting Point | ℃ | 170-190 | 170 |
| Insulation Resistance | Ω | ≥1×1010 | 5.0 ×1010 |
| Hardness | A | ≥90 | 92(A) |
Mechanical properties of the Rubber Rail Pad
| Technical Parameter | Unit | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Stiffness | KN | 90-130 |
| Hardness Shore A | ℃ | 72-80 degree |
| Electronic Resistance | Ω | ≥ 106 |
| Tensile Strength before Aging | Mpa | ≥12.5 |
| Elongation before Aging | % | ≥250 |
The purpose of rail pad
1. Impact Absorption and Stress Distribution: When the wheel contacts the rail, the pad absorbs impact forces and distributes the load evenly, preventing sleeper cracking or loosening due to concentrated stress.
2. Vibration and Noise Reduction: The elastic pad isolates vibration transmission between the rail and sleeper, reducing structural noise and ground vibration during train operation, improving ride comfort and environmental quality.
3. Electrical Insulation: In electrified railways, the pad prevents current leakage through the sleeper, ensuring safe and stable operation of the railway signaling and electrical systems.
4. Wear Reduction and Longer Service Life: The pad reduces direct friction between the rail and sleeper, minimizing wear and extending the lifespan of both components.
5. Compensation for Uneven Surfaces: Rail pads help compensate for minor unevenness beneath the rail, maintaining proper alignment and improving overall track stability.
6. Excellent Weather Resistance: High-quality EVA or rubber pads can withstand heat, cold, humidity, and UV exposure, making them suitable for coastal, plateau, or desert conditions.
GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAY supplies a full range of rail pads made of EVA, neoprene rubber, and composite materials, suitable for UIC, AREMA, GB, BS, and AS rail standards. The company also provides rail clips, fish plates, base plates, and screw spikes, along with customized design and professional technical support for railway fastening systems.
Send your special customization requirements to GNEE RAILWAY.

