Steel rail is one of the earliest and most commonly used products in the railway track system. As one of the main components of the railway track system, its main function is to withstand the pressure of the train, support the normal operation of the train, and direct the train to the normal running direction. Generally, the rail is divded into standard rail and high strength rail, whose train speed is limited in service.
Standard rail is a kind of rail with a nominal weight of less than 60kg per meter and is mainly used for railway lines with lower speeds in railway construction. The modulus of elasticity that ensures the correct distribution of static and dynamic load is relatively large, which will make the track structure have large elastic deformation, resulting in uneven wear of the metals at the contact area, instability of the track and the need for frequent maintenance and correction of the track line along the way. Standard rails are usually made from carbon steel, and are soft, allowing welds to penetrate effectively.
High strength rail, also known as special rail, has a modulus of elasticity that is significantly higher than that of standard rail. According to EN13674-1:2012, the high strength rail is divided into three categories, namely U76, U71 and U75. Compared with standard rail, the high strength rail is much higher in rail strength and is mainly used for those railway line with high speed and high technology standards, such as the high speed railway line. High strength rail is usually made of high strength steel, which is harder than standard rail and has a higher temperature resistance, thus increasing the service life of the rail, reducing the frequency of rail replacement and ensuring the safety of high speed railway lines.
In terms of production, steel rail is mainly produced by rolling process in railway, molding process for large-scale continuous production of a certain length of rail, and heat treatment process for heat treatment of steel rail components after molding. In terms of installation, the rail is laid in situ in the railway track system, and then the frog and switch connection of the rail is connected to make the track system form a complete track, providing a good operating environment for the train.
Steel rail has become essential for the vast majority of railroads and railway lines, as it is able to support railroad cars and equipment and enable them to function as designed. Some of the benefits of using steel rail include increased safety, increased efficiency, minimized maintenance costs and improved track layout. As a result, steel rail has become a key component in railroad construction and operation.
Steel rail can also be used to create curved sections and add in additional lines to existing track. This method can quickly adapt to the need and changes in track, making railway systems even more efficient and safer.
Overall, steel rail is a highly important part of railway track systems, as it provides a secure base for the movement of railcars and personnel, while maintaining the structure and integrity of the track system. Its unique properties allow it to absorb shock, help keep the track aligned and provide a solid base for a durable and long-lasting track system.
