W14 Rail Clip: 60Si2Mn Spring Steel, Coating Options and Applications
Oct 16, 2025
The W14 Rail Clip
The W14 rail clip is a W-shaped spring clip widely used in studded rail fastening systems on concrete sleepers. Its dual-arm design absorbs high-frequency vibrations from passing trains and reduces impact wear between the rail and the sleeper. On freight-intensive cross-border heavy-haul lines, its structural rigidity maintains a stable clamping force and prevents longitudinal rail creep under heavy loads. On urban commuter railways with frequent starts and stops, it accommodates dynamic load variations without redesign for a specific scenario.
W14 Clip Specification
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Clip type | W14 spring clip (W-shaped, round bar) |
| Bar diameter | 13 mm |
| Weight | 0.508 kg per piece |
| Material | 60Si2Cr / 38Si7 / 60Si2Mn |
| Hardness | 42-47 HRC |
| Surface | Plain oiled, oxygen black, zinc plated, hot-dip galvanized, dacromet coating, colour painting |
| Package | Moven bag, pallet |
| Reference fastening | Studded rail fastening system for concrete sleepers |
Performance in Service
Clamping force: the W-shaped geometry develops a stable toe load that holds the rail foot against the baseplate and resists rail creep.
Vibration absorption: the two spring arms damp the dynamic forces of passing trains, protecting both rail and sleeper seat.
Compatibility: the clip works with international standard rail sections on concrete-sleeper track across Europe, Asia, Africa and other regions.
Fatigue resistance: the 42-47 HRC hardness range after quenching and tempering balances wear resistance with the elasticity required for millions of load cycles.
Coating Options and When to Use Them
Plain oiled: economical rust protection for dry, indoor and short-term storage before installation.
Oxygen black: black oxide finish for a uniform appearance with light corrosion protection.
Zinc plating: standard protection for moderate environments.
Hot-dip galvanizing: thicker zinc layer for coastal, tunnel and humid environments.
Dacromet coating: chromium-free flake coating with high corrosion resistance for aggressive industrial atmospheres.
Colour painting: specified colours for identification or client requirements.
FAQ
What does the W14 clip fit into?
The W14 clip is used in studded rail fastening systems with a 13 mm bar profile, on concrete sleepers with embedded shoulders or studs, and suits international standard rail sections.
What steel is the W14 clip made from?
It is produced from 60Si2Mn, 60Si2Cr or 38Si7 spring steel, depending on the order, and hardened to 42-47 HRC.
How much does a W14 clip weigh?
A W14 clip weighs 0.508 kg per piece. This is useful for estimating freight weight, since a track kilometre can use several thousand clips.
Which coating should I choose for a coastal railway?
For coastal and highly corrosive environments, hot-dip galvanizing or dacromet coating is recommended over plain oiled or zinc-plated finishes.
Can the W14 clip be used on curved track?
Yes. The clip maintains stable clamping force in curves when used with the correct gauge-side components of the studded fastening system.
