Types of Railway Fastening Systems
Railway Fastening System is a critical component of railway infrastructure that secures rails to sleepers (ties) and ensures the stability, safety, and longevity of the track. It plays a vital role in maintaining track geometry, absorbing dynamic forces, and reducing noise and vibrations.
Elastic Fastening Systems
Examples: SKL, Pandrol, Nabla.
Features: Use elastic clips or springs to hold the rail in place, providing flexibility and vibration damping.
Applications: High-speed railways, urban transit systems, heavy haul lines.
Rigid Fastening Systems
Examples: Dog spikes, screw spikes.
Features: Use rigid components to fix the rail to the sleeper, offering strong but less flexible support.
Applications: Traditional railways, low-speed tracks.
Direct Fixation Systems
Examples: Bolted fasteners, embedded rail systems.
Features: Directly attach the rail to the sleeper or concrete slab without ballast.
Applications: Metros, light rail, and urban transit systems.
