Перевод текста Steel sleepers: a component of modern track Modern track has to cope with the growing demands of rail traffic, in particular with the constant increase in the weight and speed of trains. Railways have therefore...

Перевод текста Steel sleepers: a component of modern track Modern track has to cope with the growing demands of rail traffic, in particular with the constant increase in the weight and speed of trains. Railways have therefore progressively adopted longwelded rails, whish lessen wear and tear of rolling stock and mean longer life for rails, because wear at rail ends is avoided and there are fewer bolt holes which may originate cracks. Makers of steel sleepers claim their products have proved fully adaptable to the requirements of modem track white not losing anything of their traditional qualities. They guarantee perfect solidarity “rail and sleeper on the one hand and sleepers and ballast on the other. Rail sleeper solidarity depends on the system of fastening adopted. This is perfectly achieved by the simplest and most robust means, that is by direct fastening with bolts, clips and washers. The good anchorage of the sleeper in the ballast is an indispensable element in track stability. The reversed trough shape of steel steeper ensures excellent resistance to longitudinal displacement. The present shape of steel sleepers is the outcome of long experience. Manufacturers also assert that as well as its excellent performance in the track, the steel sleeper has other essential advantages: homogeneity, strength, long life and simple fastening. Owing to their homogeneity, individual replacement of defective sleepers is done away with. The mechanical strength and resistance to biological agents of steel sleepers are particularly valued in desert and tropical regions Great variations between day and night temperature do not affect them.