Guard Rail Bolt and Nut are essential components used in railway systems, specifically designed for securing guard rails in place. Guard rails are crucial for track safety, as they help guide trains through curves, switches, and other areas prone to derailment. Here’s a detailed overview of Guard Rail Bolts and Nuts:
Key Features of Guard Rail Bolt and Nut:
- Material:
- High-Strength Steel: Guard rail bolts and nuts are typically made from high-strength steel to withstand the stresses of heavy train loads and vibrations.
- Corrosion Resistance: They may be galvanized or treated with coatings to resist rust and corrosion, particularly in outdoor and high-moisture environments.
- Design:
- Guard Rail Bolt: These bolts have a unique design to fit specifically with guard rails and track components. The bolts are usually longer to accommodate the thickness of the rail and guard rail.
- Nut: The nut, typically hexagonal in shape, is paired with the bolt to ensure a tight and secure fastening. It’s important that the nut is matched correctly with the bolt to provide the necessary clamping force.
- Threaded Shank: The bolt has a threaded shank to allow the nut to be screwed on securely, holding the guard rail in place.
- Applications:
- Guard Rails: These bolts are used to secure guard rails to the main track rails. Guard rails are safety features installed in areas where there is a risk of derailment, such as curves, bridges, and switches.
- Bridge Approaches: Guard rails and their bolts are often found on railway bridges, helping to prevent trains from derailing in these high-risk areas.
- Turnouts and Crossings: In turnouts and crossings, guard rail bolts are essential for maintaining the integrity of the track by keeping the guard rails securely fastened.