Steel rails can be found in various rail profiles, each with its own purpose and application. Some of the most common profiles are as follows:
1. The flat-bottomed rail (FB) is the fundamental and widely utilized profile. It possesses a flat bottom and slightly sloping sides, providing stability and support for train wheels. This makes it suitable for general railway lines.
2. The bullhead rail (BH) has a rounded top and a flat bottom, resembling the shape of a bull's head. It was frequently used in older railroad systems but has largely been replaced by flat-bottomed rails.
3. The grooved rail (GR), also known as girder rail, features a flat bottom with a groove on top. It is often employed in tram or streetcar systems, as the groove accommodates the attachment of the vehicle's wheel flanges, providing additional guidance.
4. The crane rail (CR) is specifically designed for overhead cranes or gantry cranes. It typically possesses a wide base and a thick head, enabling it to withstand heavy loads and ensure stability during crane movements.
5. The guard rail (GRD) serves as a protective barrier on railway tracks, preventing derailments and keeping the train on the intended path. It is typically shorter and has a wider base compared to other rail profiles.
6. The switch rail (SR) is used at railway switches or crossings, facilitating track changes for trains. It is typically shorter and possesses a more intricate shape to accommodate the movement of the train wheels when transitioning between tracks.
These examples showcase the variety of rail profiles used in steel rails. Each profile serves a specific purpose and is designed to meet the requirements of different railway systems and applications.
There are several different rail profiles used in steel rails, each designed for specific purposes and applications. Some of the most common rail profiles include:
1. Flat-bottomed rail (FB): This is the most basic and widely used rail profile, featuring a flat bottom and slightly sloped sides. It provides stability and support for train wheels, making it suitable for general railway lines.
2. Bullhead rail (BH): This profile has a rounded top and a flat bottom, resembling the shape of a bull's head. It was commonly used in older railroad systems but has been largely phased out in favor of flat-bottomed rails.
3. Grooved rail (GR): Also known as girder rail, this profile features a flat bottom with a groove on top. It is often used in tram or streetcar systems, as the groove allows for the attachment of the vehicle's wheel flanges, providing additional guidance.
4. Crane rail (CR): This rail profile is specifically designed for overhead cranes or gantry cranes. It typically has a wide base and a thick head, allowing for heavy loads and ensuring stability during crane movements.
5. Guard rail (GRD): This profile is used as a protective barrier on railway tracks, preventing derailments and keeping the train on the intended path. It is typically shorter and has a wider base compared to other rail profiles.
6. Switch rail (SR): This profile is used at railway switches or crossings, allowing trains to change tracks. It is usually shorter and has a more complex shape to accommodate the movement of the train wheels when transitioning between tracks.
These are just a few examples of rail profiles used in steel rails. Each profile serves a specific purpose and is designed to meet the requirements of different railway systems and applications.
There are several different rail profiles used in steel rails, including the flat bottom (FB), bullhead (BH), vignole (V), and grooved rail profiles. Each profile has its own specific design and is used for different purposes in rail infrastructure.
