Normaalspoor

Normaalspoor refers to the standard gauge of railway tracks, which is a widely adopted track width used in rail transport systems worldwide. The term originates from Dutch, where "normaal" means "normal" and "spoor" means "railway track." Normaalspoor is defined by a track gauge of 1,435 millimeters (4 feet 8½ inches) between the inner sides of the rails, making it the most common gauge globally.

This standard gauge was established in the 19th century as railways expanded across Europe and beyond. Many early railway networks adopted this width due to its balance between construction costs and operational efficiency. Over time, it became the dominant gauge in countries such as the United States, most of Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia and Africa. As a result, normaalspoor facilitates international rail transport, enabling seamless connections between different countries and regions.

While normaalspoor is the most prevalent, other gauges exist, such as the broader Russian gauge (1,520 mm) or the narrower narrow gauges used in some mountainous or rural areas. Conversion between gauges often requires specialized rolling stock or track adjustments, which can be costly and time-consuming. For this reason, normaalspoor remains the preferred choice for high-traffic and long-distance rail networks.

The adoption of normaalspoor has also influenced the design of locomotives and passenger cars, ensuring compatibility across borders. This standardization has played a key role in the development of efficient rail networks, supporting both freight and passenger services on a global scale. Today, normaalspoor continues to be the foundation of modern railway systems, supporting millions of daily travelers and tons of cargo worldwide.