What are the trains and tracks fixed on?
In modern transportation systems, the way trains and tracks are fixed is key to ensuring safe train operation. This article will introduce in detail the technical principles, material selection and related data of track fixation to help readers fully understand this basic but crucial engineering issue.
1. Basic structure of track fixation
The track system mainly consists of rails, sleepers, ballast and fixings. Below is a detailed description of each part:
| components | Function | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Rail | Carrying the weight of the train and guiding the direction of the wheels | High carbon steel or alloy steel |
| sleeper | Disperse rail pressure and fix rail position | wood, concrete or steel |
| ballast | Buffering vibration, water drainage and anti-slip | gravel or gravel |
| Fixings | Connect rails and sleepers | Bolts, fasteners or spring clips |
2. Key technologies for track fixation
1.fastener system: Modern railways mostly use elastic fasteners, such as Pandrol fasteners or e-type clips, to absorb the impact of trains through elastic deformation and reduce track wear.
2.Ballast layer design: The thickness and particle size of ballast directly affect the stability of the track. Usually the thickness is 25-30 cm and the particle diameter is 20-50 mm.
3.Seamless rail technology: The rails are connected into hundreds of meters of long rails by welding to reduce joint vibration and improve ride comfort.
| technology | Advantages | Application scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| elastic fastener | Shock and noise reduction, extending track life | High-speed railway, urban rail transit |
| ballast layer | Low cost and easy maintenance | Normal speed railway and freight lines |
| Seamless rail | Reduce bumps, increase speed | High-speed rail, subway |
3. Track maintenance and challenges
The fixation of the track is not permanent and requires regular maintenance. Frequently asked questions include:
-Gauge deformation: The track spacing changes due to long-term rolling of trains and needs to be adjusted by the gauge rod.
-ballast powder: The drainage performance will be reduced after the gravel is broken, and it needs to be replenished or replaced regularly.
-Rail wear: Especially the curved part needs to be polished or turned over for use.
4. Association of global hot topics
Recently, hot topics in global railway technology include:
1.Maglev track fixed: The new magnetic levitation system developed by Germany and Japan eliminates traditional fasteners and uses electromagnetic force to suspend and fix it.
2.Intelligent monitoring system: China’s high-speed rail uses AI and big data to detect track deformation in real time and prevent derailment accidents.
3.Environmentally friendly materials: Europe trials recycled plastic sleepers to reduce carbon emissions from wood and concrete.
Summary
The fixing of tracks is a complex and precise technology involving material science, mechanical design and intelligent maintenance. As technology advances, more innovative solutions may emerge in the future to further improve railway safety and efficiency.
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