RAIL CLIP – SPRING STEEL FASTENER FOR SECURE RAIL-TO-SLEEPER CONNECTION

The rail clip is the retaining element that presses the rail foot firmly onto the sleeper or baseplate. It sits at the core of every rail fastening system, providing a continuous clamping force that resists the uplift, lateral shift and vibration generated by passing trains. Our clips are hot forged from spring steel grades such as 60Si2MnA and 38Si7, then heat treated to achieve the required combination of hardness, toughness and elasticity. Each clip is designed to deliver a specific toe load – typically in the range of 9–12 kN – and to maintain that load over millions of loading cycles. We manufacture a full range of types, including SKL clips, E-clips, Nabla clips and less common hook-in profiles, to suit different shoulder, pad and sleeper configurations. Together with the correct insulators and pads, these track fasteners form the basis of a stable, low-maintenance track structure.

KEY FEATURES & BENEFITS

• Constant toe load over long service periods: The clip is designed to operate within its elastic range at the specified deflection. This means the clamping force stays predictable and does not drop significantly over time, reducing the need for re-tensioning during railway maintenance.

• High fatigue resistance: All our spring steel clips are tested to a minimum of 5 million cycles under controlled conditions. This ensures they can handle the repeated loading of high-frequency train passes on busy passenger and freight corridors without cracking.

• Suitable for a wide range of rail profiles and sleepers: We produce clip geometries matched to UIC, AREMA, JIS and GB rail sections, and for use on prestressed concrete, wooden and composite sleepers. The toe profile and leg angle are adjusted to give the correct seating on each rail foot.

• Corrosion protection options: Clips can be supplied with plain oiled finish, zinc electroplating, epoxy powder coating, or Dacromet. The choice of surface treatment depends on the track environment – coated clips are standard for tunnels, coastal areas, and chemically aggressive sites.

• Quick installation and removal: Most clip types can be fitted and removed with a standard rail clip crowbar. This reduces track possession time for both new construction and spot replacement work, keeping overall railway maintenance costs under control.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS