CHECKRAIL Meaning and
Definition
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A checkrail refers to a structural element utilized on a railway system that helps maintain safety and stability. It typically consists of a horizontal bar or beam fitted alongside the tracks, used to prevent the derailment of train cars or other rolling stock. Primarily made from durable materials like steel or iron, the checkrail is securely fixed to the sleepers or ties, ensuring stability and security while trains traverse the tracks.
The purpose of a checkrail is to guide and restrain the wheels of passing trains, especially in areas prone to high speeds or sharp turns. It prevents the wheels from deviating too far off the track due to centrifugal forces, protecting against potential derailment accidents that may result in damage to the rolling stock, infrastructure, or injury to passengers and crew members.
Typically found on curved sections of railway lines, checkrails provide an additional level of safety by supplementing the regular rails, keeping the wheels in proper alignment. This extra measure helps to maintain the required gauge - the distance between the rails - and diminishes the risk of derailment by reducing the lateral movement of the wheels.
Furthermore, checkrails play a vital role in preventing the unwanted spreading or widening of the track gauge. They contribute to overall track maintenance by ensuring the stability and integrity of the railway system, allowing for safe and smooth transportation of goods and passengers.
Common Misspellings for CHECKRAIL
- xheckrail
- vheckrail
- fheckrail
- dheckrail
- cgeckrail
- cbeckrail
- cneckrail
- cjeckrail
- cueckrail
- cyeckrail
- chwckrail
- chsckrail
- chdckrail
- chrckrail
- ch4ckrail
- ch3ckrail
- chexkrail
- chevkrail
- chefkrail
- chedkrail
Etymology of CHECKRAIL
The word "checkrail" is composed of two parts: "check" and "rail".
The term "check" originally comes from Old French "eschequier" and Late Latin "scaccarium", which referred to the game of chess. Over time, "check" evolved to mean a form of control, verification, or examination. In the context of railroads, "check" refers to a device or mechanism used to control the movement or position of a train or railway car.
The word "rail" traces back to Middle English "reile" and Old French "reille", meaning a horizontal bar or a rod. Eventually, it expanded to specifically refer to a metal bar used to construct railway tracks.
Therefore, "checkrail" combines these two elements, indicating a specific kind of rail used for control or verification purposes in the context of railroads.
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