Rails
Rails Members of the track laid in two parallel lines to provide an unchanging, continuous and level surface for the movement of trains. Made of high carbon steel.
Carbon Steel Alloy (metal + another component) steel Steel become stronger & harder Reduces weldability (capable to be welded) & melting point
Functions of Rails Continuous & level surface Smooth flow i.e. friction b/w Steel-Steel is ⅕ of Tyre-Road Transmitting load to larger area Bear stresses (axle load, breaking load, thermal load)
Types of Rails Double Headed Rail Bull Headed Rail Flat-footed Rail
Double Headed Rail First rails I Section Rail can be inverted & Reused Practically not possible to reuse
Bull Headed Rail More metal on head Reduce wear & tear Drawback-chairs required for fix to sleeper
Flat-footed Rail (used in IR) Also called Vignole rail Inverted T-Shape Fixed to sleeper by spikes More economics, greater strength & lateral stability