Why is it not recommended to use Rail Clips to replace Rail Pads?

 

It is not recommended to use rail clips to replace rail pads because they are distinct components with different functions in a railway fastening system. Rail clips fasten the rail to the baseplate, while rail pads are elastic mats placed between the rail and the sleeper to absorb vibration and protect the components from wear. Using one to replace the other would compromise the system's ability to distribute load and absorb shock, leading to premature wear and potential safety issues.

 

 

Rail Clip vs. Rail Pad

 

Rail Clip: A component that physically fastens the steel rail to the baseplate or sleeper.

 

• Function: Provides a strong, secure connection that resists lateral and longitudinal forces from passing trains.

 

• Structure: Made of rigid or elastic metal and exerts a significant clamping force.

 

 

Model	Diameter	Weight	Material
Type III	Ø18	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E1609	Ø16	0.43 kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E1809	Ø20	0.61kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E1813	Ø18	0.62kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2001	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2007	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2009	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2039	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2055	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2056	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
E2063	Ø20	0.80kg/pc	60Si2MnA
PR85 Rail Clip	Ø13	0.25kg/pc	60Si2MnA
PR309A	Ø19	0.85kg/pc	60Si2MnA
PR401	Ø20	0.97kg/pc	60Si2MnA
PR415	Ø20	0.95kg/pc	60Si2MnA
PR601A	Ø20	1.03kg/pc	38Si7
SKL 1	Ø13	0.48kg/pc	60Si2CrA
SKL 3	Ø13	0.48kg/pc	60Si2CrA
SKL 12	Ø13	0.53kg/pc	38Si7
SKL 14	Ø13	0.53kg/pc	60Si2MnA
Special Rail Clip	Ø13	0.48kg/pc	60Si2MnA
Russia Rail Clip	Ø18	0.58kg/pc	60Si2MnA
Deenik Clip	Ø25	0.49-0.68kg/pc	60Si2MnA
Single Anti-	Ø20	0.25kg/pc	60Si2MnA
Theft

 

Rail Pad: An elastic component, often made of polyurethane or rubber, that is placed between the rail and the sleeper.

 

• Function: To absorb shock and vibration, reduce wear on the sleeper, and distribute the load from the rail.

 

• Structure: A soft, elastic mat designed to compress and dampen forces.

 

 

Why replacement is not recommended

 

• Different roles: A rail clip cannot perform the shock absorption and wear reduction functions of a rail pad.

 

• Structural damage: Replacing the pad with a clip would transfer the full impact of the train directly to the sleeper, causing fatigue cracking and other damage over time.

 

• Safety: The entire fastening system is engineered with both components working together. Omitting one or using a component in a role it was not designed for can compromise the integrity of the track and lead to a higher risk of derailment.

 

 

Materials for rail pads

 

After years of rail pad manufacturing experience, we have developed a range of high performance flexible rail pads to meet rigid demand and a variety of application areas: from standard railways to heavy-duty lines, special rail pads for E-clamp track fastening systems and SKL type track fastening system. The materials includes HDPE / EVA / rubber material, which possess the following characteristics.

 

 

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

 

HDPE Rail Pad
Technical Parameter	Unit	Technical Requirement	Value
Density	g/cm3	0.95-0.98	0.95
Tensile Strength	Mpa	≥19	19
Elongation	%	>80	150
Melting Point	℃	170-190	190
Insulation Resistance	Ω	≥1×1010	3.5 ×1010
Hardness	A	≥98	98(A)

 

EVA: Polyethylene 80%, Vinyl Acetate 20%.
Technical Parameter	Unit	Technical Requirement	Value
Density	g/cm3	0.95-0.98	0.95
Tensile Strength	Mpa	≥15	16
Elongation	%	>500	550
Melting Point	℃	170-190	170
Insulation Resistance	Ω	≥1×1010	5.0 ×1010
Hardness	A	≥90	92(A)

 

GNEE RAIL offers different kinds of railway fasteners to meet client's requirements, such as Elastic Rail Clip and Clamp, Rail Screw Spike, Plastic Dowel, High Tensile Track Bolt with Nut, Rail Base(Tie) Plate, Rail Fish Plate, Railway Shoulder(Insert), Fish Bolt, Railroad Rubber and EVA Pad, etc. Samples and drawings provided by customer, we will manufacture qualified products accordingly.

 

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