Kaksiraudse

Kaksiraudse refers to a type of railway track configuration characterized by the presence of two parallel rails. This arrangement is the standard for most modern railway systems worldwide. The term "kaksiraudse" is of Finnish origin, directly translating to "two-railed." This configuration allows for the efficient and safe passage of trains, which are designed to run on these specific parallel tracks.

The fundamental principle behind the kaksiraudse system is that the two rails provide a stable and guided path for the train's wheels. The wheels of a train are typically flanged, meaning they have a rim that runs along the inner side of the rail. This flange prevents the wheels from derailing and keeps the train centered on the track. The distance between the two rails, known as the track gauge, is a critical dimension that varies between different railway networks but is consistently maintained within a specific system.

The development of the kaksiraudse system has been a significant factor in the evolution of transportation, enabling the movement of large quantities of goods and passengers over long distances. Its simplicity and effectiveness have contributed to its widespread adoption and continued use in railway construction and operation. Maintenance of the kaksiraudse track involves regular inspection and repair of the rails, sleepers (or ties), and ballast to ensure safety and smooth operation.