teräskiskoilla

Teräskiskoilla, often translated as steel rails, are the fundamental components of most railway systems worldwide. They are specifically designed metal bars, typically made of hardened steel, that provide a smooth, low-friction surface for train wheels to travel upon. The profile of a steel rail is usually I-shaped, with a head, web, and foot, optimized for strength and stability. The head is the part that comes into direct contact with the train wheels, designed to withstand wear and provide guidance. The web connects the head to the foot, providing vertical strength. The foot, also known as the base, distributes the load of the train to the sleepers or ties beneath.

Steel rails are manufactured through a process of hot rolling, where heated steel billets are passed through a series of rollers to achieve the desired profile. The composition of the steel is crucial, often including elements like carbon, manganese, and silicon to enhance durability, hardness, and resistance to fatigue and corrosion. Joints between individual rail sections are typically connected using fishplates, bolts, or by welding the rails together to form continuous welded rail (CWR). CWR significantly reduces noise and vibration and is the standard for modern high-speed lines. The proper installation and maintenance of steel rails are essential for safe and efficient railway operation, as they directly impact track stability, train speed, and overall system reliability.