What are the 4 types of fishplates?
Dec 31, 2025
Rail joint plays a jointing function (connecting function) in the railroad. High quality railway joint can effectively reduce the influence of wheels when passing through the jointing sections of the steel rail and increase the steadiness and continuity of the passing trains. As one of the important parts in railway, railway joint bar are widely used both in light rail and heavy rail to guarantee the safety of railroad transportation.
What are the 4 types of fishplates?
The four main types of fishplates used in railways, often categorized by their design and function, are Standard (or Common), Joggled, Compromise (or Combination), and Special (like Insulated joints), each serving to connect rails while managing different track conditions, from simple straight sections to transitions between rail sizes or signal systems.
Here's a breakdown of each type:
- Standard Fishplate: The most common type, shaped like a "C" or channel, used for straight, level track connections, typically with four or six bolts, and made from medium or high-carbon steel.
- Joggled Fishplate: Features a slight bend or "jog" to maintain rail surface continuity, often used with specific rail types or where the rail ends are not perfectly aligned.
- Compromise/Combination Fishplate: Used to join two rails of different sizes or profiles, creating a smooth transition between them.
- Special Fishplate (e.g., Insulated Joints): Designed for specific functions, such as insulated joints that prevent electrical current flow (crucial for signaling systems) or temporary repair plates for welded joints.
Other Types of Rail Joint
| Model | Material | Standard | Unit weight | Surface Treatment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SJ50 rail joint | 50# | 11.59kg/pc | Plain | ||
| SJ43 Rail Joint | 50# | 10.16kg/pc | Plain | ||
| TJ57 Rail Joint | 45# | 17.36kg/pc | Plain | ||
| S30 Rail Joint | 50# | 5.8kg/pc | Plain, or according to the customers' demand | ||
| CR135 Rail Joint (used in CR135 Crane Rail) | 50# | ASTM-43 | Plain, or Hot-dip galvanized |
||
| CR171 Rail Joint (used in CR171 Crane Rail) | 50# | ASTM-43 | 16.0kg/pc | Plain, or Hot-dip galvanized |
|
| S49 Forged Rail Joint |
Q345 | UIC49 | 8.60kg/pc | Sandblasted +oiled | |
| S60 Forged Rail Joint |
Q345 | UIC60 | 14.50kg/pc | Sandblasted +oiled |
Benefits of Using Fish Plates
The use of fish plates in railway tracks comes with numerous benefits. One of the primary advantages is the enhanced structural integrity they provide, ensuring that rail connections are secure and stable. This stability significantly reduces the chances of derailments caused by track misalignments. Additionally, fish plates facilitate the quick implementation and repair of rail joints, minimizing downtime and ensuring the continuous operation of rail services. The versatility of fish plates also allows for their use in different track sections and types, providing adaptability across various rail systems.
Finally, they help in maintaining electrical insulation in key sections of the track, which is essential for the safe and effective operation of rail signaling systems.
GNEE RAIL supplies rail fishplates for light rail, heavy rail, and crane rail systems. Each model is manufactured to international railway standards and available in carbon steel, alloy steel, or customized materials to meet specific operational needs.
All fishplates undergo precision machining, heat treatment, and anti-corrosion surface processing, ensuring optimal clamping force, fatigue resistance, and long-term service life.
