Railway sleeper fasteners and systems such as rail anchors are essential components of a railway track.
Recommended Buyer's Guides
Rail sleepers ensure that the gauge between two rail tracks is maintained.
Fastening systems connect the rails to the railway sleepers and reduce the longitudinal movement of the rails.
Industry leading suppliers of rail anchors fasteners and machined railway sleepers
Our Railway Technology team has researched and listed some of the leading suppliers and contractors of rails, rail anchors, railway sleeper fasteners and sleepers.
This extensive list includes providers of rail sleepers, concrete railway sleepers, rail track fastening systems and fasteners, bolting systems, concrete ties, slab tracks, hinges, latches and other fastening systems.
Within the available download document we have included a wide range of invaluable industry information.
This content will be particularly valuable to railway companies, railway track consultants, designers, and engineers.
There is also a range of important information to assist and advise railway project procurement officers and supervisors, as well as railway maintenance and repair service providers.
The download also contains detailed information on the suppliers and their product lines, alongside contact details for those looking to secure any procurement.
Railway sleeper fasteners, types and functions
Railway sleepers fix the rails in position and provide firm support, in addition to ensuring the correct gauge between the rails.
They also serve as an elastic medium between the rails and the ballast while establishing the stability of the overall railway track.
Rail sleepers can be of various types, including, but not limited to:
- Wooden sleepers
- Steel sleepers
- Cast iron sleepers
- Reinforced cement concrete sleepers
- Pre-stressed concrete sleepers
The type of railway sleepers used depends on the geography of the area where the railway track is being laid and the gauge being used.
Railway fastening systems
Fastening systems are used to fasten the steel rails to the railway sleepers and include components such as rail tie plate, spike, clip, rail anchor, fasteners, screws and bolts.
These systems play a critical role in ensuring the safety of the railway track and vehicles while absorbing noise and shock and improving comfort for passengers.
Features considered when choosing a fastening system include, but are not necessarily restricted to:
- High shock absorption capacity
- Good insulation properties
- Clamping force offered
- Ease of operation
- Fewer spare parts
FAQs
What are railway sleepers, and why are they essential for railway tracks?
Railway sleepers are components that hold the rails in place and maintain the correct gauge between tracks.
They also serve as a cushion between the rails and ballast, reducing vibrations and distributing the load from trains to the track foundation.
Sleepers are made from materials like wood, steel, or concrete, chosen based on the track’s geography and load requirements. They ensure track stability, durability, and proper alignment over time.
What are the different types of railway sleepers?
Railway sleepers come in several types, including wooden sleepers, steel sleepers, cast iron sleepers, and reinforced or pre-stressed concrete sleepers.
Wooden sleepers are traditional but less durable, while steel and cast iron are more resistant to environmental factors.
Pre-stressed concrete sleepers are commonly used for modern railways due to their strength, longevity, and ability to support high-speed and heavy trains.
How do rail fasteners and anchors enhance railway safety?
Rail fasteners and anchors secure the rails to the sleepers, preventing lateral and longitudinal movement.
These components absorb vibrations, reduce rail stress, and enhance safety by ensuring the track maintains its alignment under heavy loads.
Proper fastening systems also help reduce noise and improve passenger comfort by minimizing the impact of shocks and vibrations during train movement.
What materials are used for rail fasteners, and why are they chosen?
Rail fasteners are typically made from high-strength materials like steel or composite alloys to withstand the heavy forces exerted by passing trains.
These materials are chosen for their durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to maintain a firm grip on the rail and sleeper under varying environmental conditions.
Fasteners are designed to provide reliable long-term performance, reducing maintenance needs and extending the life of the track infrastructure.
How do fastening systems contribute to efficient railway maintenance?
Modern fastening systems are designed for ease of installation and maintenance, with features that minimize the number of components and allow for quick replacement of parts.
High-performance fasteners reduce the need for frequent track inspections and repairs by maintaining track integrity over longer periods, contributing to the overall efficiency of railway maintenance operations.