Laying railway tracks: how it is done, what tools and equipment are used

Laying railway tracks is a complex task. It requires a large number of tools and equipment, as well as suitable materials. Usually, only experienced specialists are involved in the work. Building these structures is a big deal so trains can move safely and quickly. Let's check out how railroad tracks are laid. What tools and equipment are used?

How railroad tracks are laid

First, they make a plan and get it approved, get the necessary permits, and buy the materials. Then the section of land where the track will be laid is prepared. All trees, bushes, and other obstacles are removed. Then the ground is leveled and compacted to create a flat and solid foundation.

Stages of laying railroad tracks:

• A layer of crushed stone and sand is poured onto the prepared ground. This is necessary for drainage, so that rainwater does not stagnate, and so that the tracks do not settle over time.
• Sleepers are laid on the base—these are long wooden or concrete beams that are placed across the future track. They hold the rails at the correct height.
• Rails are laid on the sleepers and secured with special clamps and bolts. It is very important that the rails are laid evenly and parallel to each other, otherwise trains will not be able to run safely.
• The rails are connected to each other using special plates and bolts. These connections must be very strong so that the rails do not come apart while the train is moving.

After the rails have been laid and fastened, they are checked using special instruments. This is necessary to ensure that the track is level and safe for trains to travel on. If necessary, the position of the rails and fastenings is adjusted.

Tools and equipment for laying railway tracks

Excavators and bulldozers prepare the ground, level it, and compact it. Open-body trucks deliver and distribute crushed stone and sand evenly along the entire length of the future track. What machines are needed for laying railway tracks:

• Special machines lay the sleepers on the subgrade and place them precisely in the right places.
• Cranes are used to lift and lay the rails on the sleepers. They can lift heavy rails and place them precisely in position.
• Rail joining machines securely fasten the rails together using fishplates and bolts.
• Rail grinding machines remove all irregularities and make the surface smooth.

Fastening tools include bolt wrenches, staples, and other hand tools that secure the rails to the sleepers. Special laser and optical devices are used to check the evenness and accuracy of the rail laying. They are used to determine the location of railway components. After fastening, they are checked to ensure that they are positioned evenly.

The process of laying railway tracks requires the coordinated work of many specialists and the availability of special equipment. High-quality materials, tools, and transport are used. All this is necessary to ensure that trains can move safely and quickly along the rails.