Joint Bars 6 Holes for Rail 60E1

For 60E1 (UIC60) rail, 6-hole joint bars (also known as fishplates or splice bars) are heavy-duty connectors designed for mainline tracks with high traffic and heavy axle loads. These bars provide significantly more rigidity and clamping force compared to 4-hole variants, making them the standard choice for high-speed and heavy freight lines. 

Technical Specifications

The standard 6-hole joint bar for the 60E1 profile is often technically designated as the U85 type. 

• Length: Typically 800 mm to 940 mm to accommodate the six-bolt pattern. 920mm and 940mm are also very common.

• Weight: vary from 22.74kg to 29.7 kg. A pair of these bars adds substantial support to the rail joint area.

• Material: Standard production uses 55# high-carbon steel or 45# steel to achieve high tensile strength (≥ 550 MPa).

• Hole Configuration: Features six holes precisely spaced to match UIC 864-1 specifications, designed for M24 or M27 bolts.

• Standards: Manufactured in strict compliance with UIC 864-4, UIC 864-8, and European EN 13674-1. 

Core Advantages of the 6-Hole Design

• Superior Clamping Force: The extra two bolts provide up to 50% more clamping force than a 4-bolt bar, better resisting the tendency of rails to "kink" or move out of alignment, especially on curves.

• Reduced Rail-End Wear: By increasing the vertical stiffness of the joint, these bars help prevent "dipping" at the rail ends, which extends the service life of both the rail and the underlying sleepers.

• High-Volume Compatibility: Specifically engineered for the 60.21 kg/m 60E1 rail, which is the global standard for high-axle-load routes. 

Components of a Joint Set

To complete a single rail joint for 60E1 rail, you need:

• 2 x 6-Hole Joint Bars

• 6 x Fishbolts (typically M27 for UIC60, though M24 is also used)

• 6 x Spring Washers (to absorb vibration and prevent loosening)

• 6 x Heavy-Duty Nuts

Common Variants

• Insulated 6-Hole Bars: Coated with bonded fiberglass or nylon for track circuits and signaling.

• Joggled Bars: Arched in the center to fit over thermite or flash-butt welds for emergency reinforcement.

• Compromise Bars: Special 6-hole bars used to join 60E1 rail to a different profile, like 54E1.

In addition of length 800 mm joint bars for Rail 60E1, Signum Rail-Fastening is also able to provide 920 mm and 940 joint bars for Rail 60E1