Following rail track standards, each joint should be fastened with a minimum of two railway bolts per rail. Tightening torque should be around 400 foot-pounds, generating tension between 25,000 and 30,000 pounds.
Ensure that the used railway bolts are the correct size and securely in place.
Use AREMA spring washers during railway bolt installation, with nuts positioned against the spring washer.
Proper installation requires alternating placement of railway bolts and nuts on the inside and outside of the rail.
When moving railway bolts and joint bars, clean the joint area of the rail and the contact surface of the joint bar. Lubricate the joint bar and bolt threads.
Safety standards dictate that rail operations are allowed only on rails where all railway bolts are present and effective.
The railway bolt consists of a shaft with a wood screw thread on one side and a metal screw thread on the other. It also features a 7mm hex shape as part of the shaft, allowing easy winding into the end grain or newel post using a wrench or ring spanner.
