What role does the rail shoulder play in railway operation
Rail shoulder function
Locate and guide train wheels
As a part of the rail, the special design and shape of the rail shoulder provide clear positioning and guidance for the train wheels. Through the guide of the rail shoulder, the train wheels can accurately travel along the rail, ensuring the stability and safety of the train in the process of running.
Ensure the stability of the train
The design and manufacture of rail shoulders need to meet certain precision and strength requirements to withstand various forces and vibrations generated during train operation. This helps to ensure that the train remains smooth at high speeds, reducing possible safety incidents due to uneven tracks or off-track wheels.
Protect rail and wheel
The contact surface between the rail shoulder and the wheel is relatively smooth, which helps to reduce friction and wear between the wheel and the rail, thereby extending the service life of the rail and the wheel. At the same time, the design of the rail shoulder also helps to prevent the wheel from jumping or slipping during the running process, further protecting the safety of the train operation.
As part of a track circuit
On electrified railways or automatic block sections, the shoulder also doubles as a track circuit. Through the conductive property of the rail shoulder, the communication and control between the train and the ground signal equipment can be realized to ensure that the train travels safely at the predetermined speed and interval.
