Fishplates is a commonly used term in railway engineering, referring to the metal plates that join two rails together. The spelling of this word is phonetically transcribed as /ˈfɪʃpleɪts/, which breaks down as "f" sound, followed by a short "i" sound, then "sh" sound, a long "e" sound, and finally "plaits" pronounced as a single syllable. It is important to correctly spell and pronounce this word in engineering contexts to ensure effective communication and safe railway operation.
Fishplates, also known as rail joints or splice bars, are metal plates used to connect two sections of railway track or tramway track. They are an integral component of the railway infrastructure, ensuring a secure and stable connection between the rails.
Typically made of steel, fishplates are long, flat pieces of metal with holes drilled at regular intervals to match the holes on the rails. When two tracks need to be joined, the ends of the rails are brought together and the fishplates are positioned on either side of the joint. Bolts or other fasteners are then inserted through the holes in the fishplates and rails, securing them tightly together.
The primary purpose of fishplates is to maintain the continuity and alignment of the tracks, allowing for the smooth passage of trains or trams. They distribute the weight and forces evenly across the joint, preventing any gaps or misalignments that could potentially lead to derailments or accidents.
Fishplates are essential for track maintenance as well, as they allow for easy disassembly and replacement of individual sections of rail. They are commonly used on both straight tracks and curved sections of railway lines, providing a reliable means of connecting and securing the rails.
Overall, fishplates play a crucial role in the integrity and functionality of railway and tramway infrastructure, ensuring a safe and efficient transportation system.
The term "fishplates" has its origins in the railway industry. It is derived from the resemblance of the joining plates used for connecting two sections of railway track to a fish. These plates are shaped like a fish's skeleton and help to secure and align the rails. The use of the word "fish" in the term "fishplates" likely emerged due to the visual similarity between the interconnected plates and the skeleton of a fish. Over time, this term became widely adopted in the railway domain to refer to these specific joining plates.