Can a Rail Bolt Be Used Instead of a Fishplate Bolt?

Rail Bolt and Fishplate Bolt

A rail bolt can be used instead of a fishplate bolt, because a fishplate bolt is a specific type of rail bolt and the terms are often used interchangeably. Both are used to connect rail sections, but specific applications may require different strengths and types of rail bolts. Fishplate bolts connect two rails together using a fishplate or splice bar, while general rail bolts can refer to other fasteners that connect rails to sleepers or attach other components.

Interchangeability

In the context of joining rail ends, a fishplate bolt is a type of rail bolt, so they are interchangeable. However, it is important to use bolts with the correct strength rating and specifications for the specific application. Fishplate bolts must withstand high tensile and torsional forces, so they are often high-strength bolts, while other rail bolts such as those used for fastening sleepers may have different strength requirements, and many types exist, including T-bolts, clamp bolts and anchor bolts.

Strength and Grades

Fishplate bolts are available in grades 4.6, 5.6, 8.8 and 10.9, made from Q235, 35, 45 and 40Cr steels respectively. The grade 4.6 bolt has a tensile strength of at least 400 MPa and a yield strength of at least 240 MPa, the grade 5.6 bolt has a tensile strength of at least 500 MPa and a yield strength of at least 300 MPa, the grade 8.8 bolt has a tensile strength of at least 800 MPa and a yield strength of at least 640 MPa, and the grade 10.9 bolt has a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa and a yield strength of at least 900 MPa. Surface options include plain oiled, oxide black, zinc plating, hot dip galvanizing, wax, bitumen, Dacromet and sherardizing.

Other Rail Bolt Types

Hook bolts, or J bolts, are available in diameters of M20 to M36 in grades 4.6, 5.6 and 8.8, per the UIC864 and DIN529 standards. Anchor bolts are available from M16 to M48 with lengths of 100 to 500 mm, in Q235, C35, C45, 35CrMo and 42CrMo materials, per DIN529 and ISO898-1, and are anchored in concrete sleepers for K-type fastening systems.

FAQ

Q1: Is a fishplate bolt the same as a rail bolt?
A: A fishplate bolt is a specific type of rail bolt used to join rail ends.

Q2: What grades are available for fishplate bolts?
A: Grades 4.6, 5.6, 8.8 and 10.9 are available.

Q3: Which grade is used for high-stress joints?
A: Grades 8.8 and 10.9 are used where high tensile and torsional forces occur.

Q4: What surface treatments are available?
A: Plain oiled, oxide black, zinc plating, hot dip galvanizing, wax, bitumen, Dacromet and sherardizing.

Q5: Which standard is referenced for rail bolts?
A: The UIC864-2 standard is commonly referenced.

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