Customized Steel Fish Plate 300-600mm Long With 4-6 Holes For Railway Connection

A fish plate in rail (also known as a rail joint bar or splice bar) is a metal plate used to connect two rail ends together at a joint. It is a critical component in railway track systems that ensures continuity and strength at rail joints.

Key Functions:

• Connection: Joins two rail ends together to form a continuous track
• Load Transfer: Distributes wheel loads across the joint, reducing stress concentration
• Alignment: Maintains proper rail alignment and track gauge
• Electrical Continuity: Provides electrical connection for track circuit signaling systems

Design Features:

• Shape: Typically 300-600mm long with a tapered profile to match the rail section
• Holes: Contains 4-6 bolt holes for securing with fish bolts and nuts
• Material: Made from high-strength steel (often 60Si2MnA or similar spring steel grades)
• Surface: May have serrated or grooved surfaces to improve grip and prevent loosening

Installation:

Fish plates are installed on both sides of the rail web, with fish bolts passing through the rail and both plates. The assembly is tightened to specific torque values to ensure proper clamping force and prevent joint movement.

Applications:

• Rail Joints: Used at all rail joints in traditional track systems
• Insulated Joints: Special fish plates with insulating materials for track circuit boundaries
• Compromise Joints: Used to connect rails of different sections or profiles

Modern Alternatives:

In continuously welded rail (CWR) systems, fish plates are used primarily for temporary joints during construction or maintenance, as CWR eliminates most rail joints for smoother operation and reduced maintenance.

FAQ

Q1: What Types of Rails Are These Fish Plates Compatible With?

A: The suitable rail type depends on the rail profile, bolt-hole spacing, and hole diameter. 4-hole fish plates are commonly used for 43 kg/m or 50 kg/m rails, while 6-hole types are often used for heavier rails such as 60 kg/m or 75 kg/m. Please provide your rail model and standard, such as GB, UIC, or AREMA, so we can confirm compatibility.

Q2: How Do I Choose the Fish Plate Length?

A: The length depends mainly on the rail type and connection requirements. Shorter plates, such as 300 mm, may be suitable for light rails or temporary tracks, while longer plates, such as 600 mm, provide stronger and more stable rail connections. Custom lengths are also available.

Q3: What Material and Manufacturing Process Are Used?

A: Fish plates are generally made from medium-carbon steel or high-strength steel, such as Q345B or 55# steel. Common processes include forging or hot rolling, followed by precision drilling and machining to ensure accurate dimensions and bolt holes.

Q4: Do the Fish Plates Have Anti-Rust Treatment?

A: Yes. Standard products can be supplied with anti-rust coatings, such as primer or bituminous paint. For demanding environments, hot-dip galvanizing or Dacromet coating is also available. Service life depends on the coating and operating environment.

Q5: How Are the Fish Plates Packaged?

A: A standard set usually includes 2 fish plates with matching high-strength bolts, nuts, and spring washers. Products are typically packed on wooden pallets or in steel frames and secured with steel straps to prevent damage during transportation.

Q6: What Quality Standards Do the Fish Plates Meet?

A: Products can be manufactured according to applicable standards such as TB/T 2975-2010, UIC, or AREMA, depending on project requirements. Material test reports and third-party inspection certificates such as SGS or BV can be provided upon request.