What Is A Fishplate in Railway?
The rail joint bar, also known as fishplate, serves as a vital connecting element in railway fastening systems, designed to securely join two adjacent rail ends and maintain track continuity and alignment. Manufactured from high-strength carbon steel or alloy steel, these components exhibit excellent tensile strength and wear resistance. They are fastened to both sides of the rail web using track bolts and nuts to withstand longitudinal and lateral forces during train operation.
Common variants include standard fishplates, insulated fishplates, and heavy-duty fishplates, available for various rail profiles (such as UIC60, 50kg, 75kg) and operating conditions.
What is the function of a rail joint bar?
A rail joint bar (also called a fishplate) is used to join the ends of two rails together and maintain continuity of the track.
Its main functions are to:
- Align the rail ends vertically and horizontally.
- Transfer wheel loads and forces from one rail section to the next.
- Maintain the correct rail gap where a joint is provided.
- Keep the rail ends securely fastened using bolts and nuts.
- Provide continuity and stability so trains can pass smoothly over the joint.
In short, the joint bar connects and supports two rail ends so they act as nearly one continuous rail under train loads.
Get a Quote for Rail Joints
As fishplates directly impact overall track strength and operational safety/comfort, selecting quality products is paramount. GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAY manufactures fishplates to international standards (AREMA, EN, BS, UIC) while offering customized designs, anti-corrosion treatments, and technical installation guidance to meet diverse track engineering requirements.
AREMA Rail Joint
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 115RE | 4 hole-24″ | 17.04Kg |
| 115RE | 6 hole-36″ | 25.56Kg |
| 132-136RE | 4 hole-24″ | 17.75Kg |
| 132-136RE | 6 hole-36″ | 26.63Kg |
UIC Rail Fish Plate
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| UIC60 | 4 hole-630/Φ26 | 18.07Kg |
| UIC60 | 4 hole-600/Φ28 | 17.47Kg |
| UIC60 | 4 hole-630/Φ25 | 18.1Kg |
| UIC54 | 4 hole | 14.34Kg |
| UIC54 | 6 hole-800 | 19.94Kg |
BS Rail Joint Bar
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| BS75R | 4 hole | 6.56Kg |
| BS60A | 4 hole | 5.61Kg |
| BS80A | 4 hole | 6.5Kg |
| BS90A | 685.8/Φ26 | 13.23Kg |
| BS90A | 792.9/Φ26.2 | 15.34Kg |
| BS100A | 4 hole |
AS Railway Joint
| Type | Length/Diameter | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 50kg | 4 hole | 14.3Kg |
| 50kg | 6 hole | 19.5Kg |
FAQ
How Does a Rail Joint Improve Track Stability?
A properly assembled rail joint helps keep adjoining rail sections securely aligned and reduces unwanted movement at the connection point. By maintaining the correct position of the rails under repeated train loads, the joint contributes to overall track stability and smoother train operation.
What Types of Rail Joints Are Commonly Used?
Common rail joint types include insulated rail joints, compromise joints, and standard bolted rail joints. Each type is designed for a specific track requirement, such as electrical isolation, connecting rails with different profiles, or joining rails of the same section.
When Should Rail Joints Be Replaced?
Rail joints may require replacement when joint bars become excessively worn, cracked, or deformed, or when the rail ends and fastening components can no longer maintain the required connection. Replacement timing depends on track conditions, traffic loads, inspection results, and applicable railway maintenance standards.
What Factors Affect Rail Joint Performance?
Rail joint performance is influenced by factors such as axle loads, train frequency, rail condition, fastening quality, installation accuracy, and environmental conditions. Proper material selection, correct bolt tightening, accurate rail alignment, and regular inspection are essential for maintaining reliable joint performance.