There are various types of steel rails used in tram systems, including grooved rail, Vignole rail, and flat-bottomed rail. Grooved rail has a continuous groove along its length, allowing the tram wheels to fit securely, providing stability and preventing derailment. Vignole rail, on the other hand, has a flat bottom and is mainly used for light rail systems. Flat-bottomed rail is the most common type and is used for heavy tram systems. It provides a smooth surface for the wheels and distributes the weight of the trams evenly. Each type of rail is chosen based on the specific requirements of the tram system, including the weight and speed of the trams, as well as the terrain and environmental conditions.
There are several types of steel rails used in tram systems, each with its own specific applications. The most common types include grooved rail, Vignole rail, and flat-bottomed rail.
Grooved rail has a groove along its top surface, allowing the tram wheels to fit into it. This type is commonly used in street-level tram systems as it provides better traction and stability, especially during cornering.
Vignole rail, also known as T-rail, is characterized by its shape resembling the letter "T". It is commonly used in tram systems that run on dedicated tracks, providing stability and support for the tram wheels. Vignole rail is also suitable for heavier tram vehicles.
Flat-bottomed rail, as the name suggests, has a flat bottom with no groove or special shape. This type is often used in tram systems that share tracks with other types of rail vehicles, such as trains or light rail systems. Flat-bottomed rail allows for smooth transitions between different types of rail, minimizing disruptions in the overall transportation network.
Overall, the choice of steel rail type depends on factors such as the tram system's design, track characteristics, and the type of rolling stock used. Each type of rail is specifically designed to optimize performance, safety, and efficiency in tram systems.
There are primarily four types of steel rails used in tram systems: grooved, Vignoles, bullhead, and flat-bottom rails. Grooved rails have a groove on the top surface, allowing the tram wheels to fit securely. Vignoles rails are commonly used in urban tram networks due to their durability and ease of installation. Bullhead rails have a symmetrical profile, making them suitable for heavy-duty and high-speed tram lines. Lastly, flat-bottom rails are versatile and widely used in tram systems worldwide. Each type has specific applications based on factors such as the tram's weight, speed, and the terrain it operates on.
