Raiteet

Raiteet are the metal tracks of a railway, consisting of steel rails that guide and support trains. They define the track gauge and form the surface on which wheels roll, transmitting loads to the ballast and subgrade. The term raiteet is Finnish for rails, used to refer to the track system as a whole.

Typical raiteet comprise steel rails fixed to sleepers (ties) and laid on ballast. The spacing between the rails—gauge—defines the track width and varies by country. Rails are joined by fishplates or welded to form continuous lengths. Modern networks use concrete or wooden sleepers, with ballast providing stability and drainage.

Track types include ballasted tracks and slab tracks. Ballasted tracks are common on main lines; slab tracks are used in some urban or high-speed contexts. Rails come in different weights, depending on loads and speed, with heavier sections on busier lines. Sleeper materials and rail fastening systems vary by region and project.

Maintenance keeps raiteet within safety and performance standards. Typical tasks include tamping to restore alignment and level, grinding to preserve wheel-rail profiles, lubrication of joints and crossings, and replacement of worn rails or sleepers. Turnouts (points) require precise geometry and periodic maintenance to ensure reliable routing of trains.

Regional note: In Finland, the rail network uses broad gauge of 1,524 millimeters, reflecting historical development and Nordic connectivity. The gauge and infrastructure support both passenger and freight traffic, with variations driven by climate, traffic volume, and modernization programs.