Fishplate or joint bar is a method used to join steel rails in jointed track systems. It involves attaching metal plates, known as fishplates, to the ends of two rails to connect them. These plates have holes that match the rail ends, allowing bolts to be inserted and tightened, securely holding the rails together.
To join steel rails with fishplates, the first step is to ensure proper alignment and layout of the rails. Once in position, the fishplates are placed over the rail ends, aligning the holes on the plates with the rail holes. Bolts are then inserted through the holes and tightened using suitable tools.
It is crucial to tighten the bolts adequately to create a strong and secure joint between the rails. This is necessary to maintain the track system's integrity and stability, as any loose or weak connections could lead to safety concerns such as derailments.
In addition, regular maintenance and inspections are vital to identify and address any issues with the jointed track system. Over time, wear and tear and environmental factors can affect the joints' strength and stability. Therefore, inspections are conducted to detect any loose bolts, damaged fishplates, or other problems that could compromise the track's safety and functionality.
Overall, fishplates play a crucial role in connecting steel rails in jointed track systems, ensuring a continuous and secure rail line. Their installation, along with regular maintenance and inspections, is essential for the safe and efficient operation of railway networks.
In jointed track systems, steel rails are joined together using a method called fishplate or joint bar. Fishplates are metal plates that are bolted to the ends of two rails, essentially connecting them together. These plates have holes that align with the holes on the ends of the rails, allowing bolts to be inserted and tightened, securely holding the rails in place.
The process of joining steel rails with fishplates begins with ensuring that the two rails are properly aligned and laid out. Once in position, the fishplates are placed over the ends of the rails, with the holes on the plates aligned with the holes on the rail ends. Bolts are then inserted through the holes and tightened using appropriate tools.
It is essential to ensure that the bolts are tightened adequately to provide a strong and secure joint between the rails. This is crucial to maintain the integrity and stability of the track system, as any loose or weak connections could lead to derailments or other safety concerns.
Additionally, proper maintenance and regular inspections are necessary to identify and address any issues with the jointed track system. Over time, wear and tear, as well as environmental factors, can affect the strength and stability of the joints. Hence, inspections are carried out to detect any loose bolts, damaged fishplates, or other problems that might compromise the track's safety and functionality.
Overall, fishplates play a vital role in connecting steel rails in jointed track systems, ensuring a continuous and secure rail line. Their installation, along with regular maintenance and inspections, are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of railway networks.
Steel rails are joined together in jointed track systems using fishplates, also known as joint bars. These metal plates are bolted to the ends of adjacent rails, ensuring a secure connection and maintaining the continuity and alignment of the track.
