How are flat bottom rail anchors fitted?
Jan 04, 2026
A rail anchor is used to clamp onto the base of rail snug against the crosstie both sides. It is produced in one-piece from spring steel, aiming to eliminate the track sliding or expanding or contracting.Rail anchors which made in one-piece construction from spring steel are designed to fasten the rail tight on the base of the rail to prevent the rail from longitudinal movements.
The principal role of a railroad anchor is to prevent the railroad track from "creeping", which means the gradual longitudinal displacement resulting from stress imbalance, temperature change, etc. The rail anchors not only clamp on the rails but also against the sleeper so that it can provide sufficient friction and resistance to keep the track from sliding forward when trains pass by. It also helps in eliminating cuts and wear of wooden ties.
Types of railroad anchor
Railroad anchors are primarily categorized by their application mechanism: Drive-On Anchors (like Channeloc, hammered on) and Spring Type Anchors (like Trueloc, using elastic force). Common shapes include T-shaped, V-shaped, Unit V, and Improved Fair, designed to prevent rail creep by pressing against the crosstie, with specific designs for different rail weights (e.g., 115RE, UIC60).
Main Types by Mechanism
- Drive-On Type: Heavy-duty, single-piece spring steel anchors that are driven onto the rail base to press firmly against the tie, resisting movement.
- Spring Type: Also one-piece spring steel, these use elastic deformation to create a restoring force against rail creep, often used with specific rail weights.
Common Shapes & Designs
- T-Shape / V-Shape: General shapes for various rail weights, often made from rolled or forged steel.
- Unit V / Channeled: Specific designs, often cast, that provide significant bearing surface against the tie.
- Improved Fair: A recognized design known for its effectiveness.
- Wedge Anchors: Can be single or double clip types, providing a strong clamping force.
Rail anchors specifications:
| Type |
Used in 50Kg, 85Kg,90/91LB, 115RE /136RE ,UIC54 & UIC60 rail, or other types upon customers' drawings. |
||
| Material | 60Si2MnA | 45# | QT500-7 |
| Chemical composition(%) |
C:0.56-0.64, Mn:0.60-0.90, Si:1.60-2.00, Cr:≤0.35, P:≤0.03, S:≤0.03
|
C:0.42-0.50, Mn:0.50-0.80, Si:0.17-0.37, Cr:≤0.25, P:≤0.035, S:≤0.035 |
C:3.60-3.80, Mn:≤0.6, Si:2.50-2.90, P:≤0.08, S:≤0.025 |
| Surface | plain (oiled),color painting, zinc painted or HDG | ||
| Standard | AS1085.10-20002 , DIN, ISO-9001 | ||
How are flat bottom rail anchors fitted?
Flat-bottom rail anchors (or clips) are fitted by placing them around the rail's base, engaging with the sleeper or baseplate, and using bolts or driving to secure them, often with special washers for even load distribution, ensuring the clip's "nose" compresses the rail and the bottom makes solid contact with the support, preventing rail creep. Installation involves initial placement, partial tightening, tapping to seat, and then final torque application for a secure, vibration-resistant hold.
General Installation Steps (for Bolted Clips)
- Position Components: Place the rail and sleeper correctly, ensuring they are square and in contact, often with a baseplate and pad.
- Insert Bolt: Pass the bolt(s) through the baseplate and sleeper holes.
- Place Clip: Position the clip's body over the bolt(s) so its rubber "nose" rests on the rail's bottom flange.
- Initial Seating: Run nuts down to washers, but don't fully tighten; tap the clip body towards the rail to seat it firmly.
- Final Tightening: Apply the specified torque to the nuts with a spanner, compressing the nose and creating metal-to-metal contact with the sleeper.
GNEE RAIL supplies rail anchors that fit various rail section dimensions such as 85LB, 90LB, 115RE, 132RE UIC54, UIC60, 50kg, etc. The products are manufactured based on high standards and have passed the ISO9001 certificate, proving to compete in different conditions.
