What is the difference between fish bolts and hook bolts?

09 Dec.,2024

 

What is the difference between fish bolts and hook bolts?

In rail track manufacturing, bolts are an essential component that holds the rails and fastens them to the sleepers. Fish bolts and hook bolts are two common types of bolts used in rail track construction. While both bolts serve the same purpose, they have distinct features that set them apart. Understanding these differences is essential for selecting the appropriate bolt type for your rail track project.

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Fish bolts, also known as joint bars, are commonly used to connect two rails together. They are named for their fish-like shape and are designed to overlap the ends of two rails, providing stability and preventing separation of the rails. Fish bolts have been in use since the mid-19th century and have undergone many design changes and improvements to meet the demands of modern rail track construction.

Hook bolts, on the other hand, are a more recent addition to rail track construction. They are named for their hooked shape, and are typically used for attaching base plates to the sleepers. Hook bolts are generally easier to install than fish bolts, but they may not provide the same level of stability and durability.

The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the key differences between fish bolts and hook bolts. We will discuss the design, material composition, usage, installation, and maintenance considerations of both bolt types. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which type of bolt is best suited for your rail track project.

Fish Bolts

Fish bolts are an essential component of rail track construction. They are a type of bolt used to connect two rails together, making the tracks stable and secure. Fish bolts are named for their fish-like shape, and they have been in use since the mid-19th century.

The earliest fish bolts were made from wrought iron, which was prone to corrosion and breakage. Over time, improvements in material technology and design have led to the development of stronger and more durable fish bolts. Today, most fish bolts are made from high-strength steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys.

There are several different types of fish bolts, each with its own unique design and usage. One of the most common types is the four-hole fish bolt, which is used to connect two rails that overlap. Another type is the six-hole fish bolt, which is used to connect two rails that are flush with each other. There are also shoulder fish bolts, which have a shoulder that fits against the rail, providing additional support.

Fish bolts come in different sizes and specifications, depending on the size and weight of the rails they are designed to connect. They are typically designed to withstand heavy loads and high stresses, and are often made to exacting standards.

Installation and maintenance of fish bolts require careful attention to detail. Fish bolts must be installed correctly to ensure the stability and safety of the rail track. The bolts must be tightened to the correct torque specifications and checked regularly to ensure they remain secure. Over time, fish bolts can become corroded or damaged, and must be replaced to prevent track failure.

There are several advantages to using fish bolts in rail track construction. They provide a strong and stable connection between the rails, reducing the risk of rail separation and derailment. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain, and can be replaced quickly and efficiently when necessary. Additionally, fish bolts are widely available and are typically less expensive than other types of rail fasteners.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using fish bolts. They can be prone to corrosion, which can weaken the bolt and cause it to fail over time. They also require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure their continued effectiveness. Additionally, fish bolts may not be suitable for all types of rail tracks, particularly those with heavy traffic or high speeds.

Hook Bolts

Hook bolts are a type of bolt used in rail track construction. They are named for their hooked shape, and are typically used for attaching base plates to the sleepers. Hook bolts are a more recent addition to rail track construction and have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Hook bolts have a relatively short history compared to fish bolts, having only been introduced in the 20th century. They were developed as a more efficient alternative to traditional rail fasteners, such as spikes and screw spikes, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive to install.

There are several different types of hook bolts, each with its own unique design and usage. One of the most common types is the J-shaped hook bolt, which is used to attach base plates to the sleepers. Another type is the L-shaped hook bolt, which is used to attach switch plates to the sleepers. There are also different sizes and specifications of hook bolts, depending on the size and weight of the rails they are designed to support.

Hook bolts are typically made from high-strength steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys. They are designed to withstand heavy loads and high stresses, and are often made to exacting standards.

Installation and maintenance of hook bolts require careful attention to detail. Hook bolts must be installed correctly to ensure the stability and safety of the rail track. They must be torqued to the correct specifications and checked regularly to ensure they remain secure. Over time, hook bolts can become corroded or damaged, and must be replaced to prevent track failure.

There are several advantages to using hook bolts in rail track construction. They are relatively easy to install and require less labor than traditional rail fasteners. They also provide a strong and stable connection between the base plates and the sleepers, reducing the risk of track failure. Additionally, hook bolts are resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for rail tracks in areas with high humidity or saltwater exposure.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using hook bolts. They may not provide the same level of stability and durability as fish bolts, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or high speeds. They may also be more expensive than other types of rail fasteners. Finally, hook bolts require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure their continued effectiveness.

Key Differences

Fish bolts and hook bolts are two different types of rail fasteners that are commonly used in rail track construction. While both types of bolts serve a similar purpose of holding the rails and the sleepers together, they differ in several key areas, including material composition, design and shape, application and usage, installation and maintenance considerations, performance and durability, as well as cost and availability.

Material composition:

Fish bolts are typically made of carbon steel, with a high carbon content. This makes them strong and durable, able to withstand the heavy loads and stresses of rail traffic. They may be coated with a protective layer, such as zinc or galvanized coating, to prevent corrosion and rust.

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Hook bolts, on the other hand, are typically made of high-strength steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys. This makes them more resistant to corrosion and rust, which is particularly important in areas with high humidity or saltwater exposure.

Design and shape:

Fish bolts have a unique design that includes a threaded shank and a square or hexagonal head. The head is usually countersunk into the sleeper, and the bolt is tightened with a nut and washer. Fish bolts are typically used to fasten rails together end to end, and are used in conjunction with other rail fasteners such as clips and rail anchors.

Hook bolts have a hooked shape, with one end curved into a J or L shape. The hooked end is typically used to fasten base plates to the sleepers, and the straight end is threaded for a nut and washer. The curved shape of the hook bolts allows them to securely hold the base plates in place, preventing movement or shifting.

Application and usage:

Fish bolts are typically used to join two rail sections end to end. They are typically used in conjunction with other rail fasteners, such as rail clips and rail anchors, to provide stability and support to the rail track. Fish bolts are also commonly used in areas where there is high traffic or heavy loads, such as in mainline tracks.

Hook bolts are typically used to attach base plates to the sleepers. The base plates provide additional support to the rails, distributing the weight of the train more evenly across the sleepers. Hook bolts are commonly used in areas where there is moderate traffic or in sidings, industrial tracks, or yards.

Installation and maintenance considerations:

Installation and maintenance of fish bolts require careful attention to detail. Fish bolts must be installed with the correct torque to ensure the stability and safety of the rail track. They must also be checked regularly to ensure they remain secure and to prevent corrosion and rust.

Installation and maintenance of hook bolts also require careful attention to detail. Hook bolts must be installed correctly to ensure the stability and safety of the rail track. They must be torqued to the correct specifications and checked regularly to ensure they remain secure. Over time, hook bolts can become corroded or damaged, and must be replaced to prevent track failure.

Performance and durability:

Fish bolts are known for their durability and strength. They are designed to withstand heavy loads and high stresses, making them a good choice for areas with high traffic or heavy loads. They are also resistant to corrosion and rust, making them suitable for rail tracks in areas with high humidity or saltwater exposure.

Hook bolts are also durable and strong, but may not provide the same level of stability and durability as fish bolts, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or high speeds. However, they are resistant to corrosion and rust, making them a good choice for rail tracks in areas with high humidity or saltwater exposure.

Cost and availability:

The cost of fish bolts and hook bolts can vary depending on several factors, including the size and specifications of the bolts, as well as the quantity and quality of the bolts needed. Fish bolts are typically more expensive than hook bolts, due to their larger size and higher carbon

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is clear that fish bolts and hook bolts are two crucial components in rail track construction. While both bolts are used to connect rails and secure them in place, they have distinct differences in terms of material composition, design, application, performance, and cost.

Fish bolts are known for their durability and ability to handle high-stress loads. They are available in various types and sizes, making them versatile for different rail track applications. On the other hand, hook bolts have a unique design that allows for easy installation and adjustment, making them ideal for temporary rail tracks.

When selecting the appropriate bolt for rail track construction, it is essential to consider the type of application, environment, and load requirements. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity and safety of the rail tracks.

In terms of future trends, rail track manufacturers are continuously looking for ways to improve the performance and durability of their products. This has led to the development of new materials and designs that enhance the strength, reliability, and safety of the rail tracks. It is, therefore, important to stay updated on these advancements and incorporate them into rail track construction where possible.

In conclusion, choosing the appropriate bolt for rail track construction is a critical decision that can impact the safety, performance, and longevity of the rail tracks. By understanding the key differences between fish bolts and hook bolts and considering the specific application and requirements, rail track constructors can make informed decisions that result in high-quality and durable rail tracks.

Fish Bolt - Rail Joint and Rail Fasteners Supplier

Fish Bolt

Fish bolt is used for connecting the rail ends with the help of rail joints. Each rail joint needs at least two fish bolts according to the rail standard, and the bolt should be in proper size and suitable place. Rail bolt is usually used with spring washer and nut to fasten the rail tightly. The size of rail bolts varies as the variation of the rails or fish plate. Fish bolts can be classified into many types such as BHON fish Bolt, Cup Head Oval Neck Fish Bolt, Heavy Hex Head Frog Bolts, Anchor Bolt, Tunnel Bolt, etc. AGICO provide various types of rail bolt suited for different standard rails such as BS, ASTM and Din, etc. 

Specification of AGICO Fish Bolt: 

  • Standards: GB, DIN, ISO, ANSI/ASTM, B7, BS, JIS etc
  • Grade: 4.8, 6.8, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9
  • Material: Q235, 45#, 40Cr, 20Mntib, stainless steel, etc
  • Size: M12-M24 or upon customer request
  • Length: 45mm-145mm or upon customer request
  • Surface: Plain, black, zinc-plated, or according to customers' requirement
  • Usage: It is used to fix the rail fish plates onto rails
  • Non-standard OEM is available if the buyer provides a drawing or sample
  • Samples: Samples are free
Model Specification Material Unit weight Surface Treatment M24*135 Fish bolt   Q235 0.65kg/pc Plain or according to the requirement of customers AREMA Fish bolt 7/8&#;*5-1/2&#; 45# 0.417kg/pc Plain AREMA Fish bolt 1&#;*5-1/4&#; 45# 0.579kg/pc Plain AREMA Fish bolt 1&#;*5-3/4&#; 45# 0.621kg/pc Plain AREMA Fish bolt 1&#;*5-7/8&#;  45# 0.631kg/pc Plain

1.BHON Fish Bolt

Material Q235, 35#, 45#,, 40Cr , C45 Grade 4.8, 8.8, 10.9 Size 22×135, 24×135, 24×145, etc. Surface Plain (oiled), Oxide black, Zinc, HDG Types

BS standard, R54 rail in Indonesia, AS.4-,
Russian standard, AREMA standard, etc.

2.Cup Head Oval Neck Fish Bolt

Size M18, M20, M22, M24, L as ordered Materials Middle carbon steel Standard refers AS .4, 6&7 Surface treatment Black

3.Heavy Hex Head Frog Bolts

Size Dia.3/4"&#;1-3/8", Length up to 30" Material A325 Standard refers ASTM A325 Surface treatment Black, Zinc plated

4.Anchor Bolt

Size M16 to M48, L=100 to 500mm Material Q235, C35, C45, 35CrMo,42CrMo Standard refers DIN529, ISO898-1 Surface treatment Oxide black, Zinc plated, Hot dip galvanized, Dacromet, Sherardized Application Anchored in concrete sleeper for K type fastening system

5.Tunnel Bolt

Type available by customers drawings and samples Surface Plain (oil ) black.Zin .HDG etc. Class 4.6.4.8.8.8.10.9 Types Square flange bolts with round thread, Special curve bolt, Spear bolts with special pitches, etc.

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