Is the use of Rail Rubber Pads mandatory in Rail Fastening Systems?

 

No, rail rubber pads are not always mandatory, as the choice of a specific rail fastening system depends on factors like track type, speed, and environmental conditions. However, they are a crucial component in most modern systems, especially for high-speed and heavy-load applications, because they reduce noise, absorb vibrations, protect the track structure, and insulate electrical signals.

 

 

Rubber Rail Pad
Technical Parameter	Unit	Value
Stiffness	KN	90-130
Hardness Shore A	℃	72-80 degree
Electronic Resistance	Ω	≥ 106
Tensile Strength before Aging	Mpa	≥12.5
Elongation before Aging	%	≥250

 

When rubber pads are essential

 

• High-speed rail: They are necessary to handle the high dynamic loads and frequencies of high-speed trains.

 

• Vibration and noise reduction: They are critical in urban areas or tunnels where reducing noise and vibration is a priority for passenger comfort and to protect surrounding structures.

 

• Protection and longevity: They protect the rail and sleepers from wear and tear caused by impact, extending the service life of the track infrastructure.

 

• Electrical insulation: They provide electrical insulation to protect the signal system.

 

 

When alternatives may be used

 

• Heavy-duty applications: In some heavy-duty operations, concrete sleepers might be used without rubber pads, as they offer superior structural support and longevity, though they lack the vibration damping of pads.

 

• Other systems: Innovative fastening systems may use other materials or designs to achieve similar results, depending on the specific requirements of the track.
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Ultimately, the specific design of a rail fastening system is chosen based on a careful analysis of the track's intended use, environmental factors, and performance needs, which determines whether a rubber pad is included.

 

Rail pad under the track can achieve such functions

 

• Distribute load to a large surface

 

• Eliminate load concentration and fatigue stress

 

• Absorb the uneven surface contact between rail and support

 

• Weaken rail noise and vibration

 

• Seal the gap between the bottom of the track and the top of the sleeper

 

• Reduce the wear of steel rail and rail sleeper

 

 

As a professional rail fastener manufacturer, GNEE RAIL can produce various types of rubber rail pads with different materials, such as natural rubber, EVA, HDPE and so on. Our EVA/HDPE/rubber rail pads are with high elasticity, applying to types for rails such as rail UIC54, UIC60, BS80lbs,BS100lbs, and sizes as ordered. The pads can be customized with or without grooves, in various possible designs, depending on customers' requirements.

 

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