Fishplate facts for kids
A fishplate is a special metal bar used to join two pieces of railway track together. Think of it like a strong connector that holds the ends of two rails tightly. This helps keep the tracks straight and stable, so trains can travel safely and smoothly.
The name "fishplate" comes from an old word for a wooden bar used to strengthen a ship's mast. Just like that wooden bar, a fishplate helps make something stronger. The edges of a fishplate are shaped so they fit perfectly between the top and bottom parts of the rail when bolted into place.
In the world of rail transport modelling, which is about building model trains and tracks, a fishplate is usually a small piece of copper or nickel silver. These tiny fishplates connect model rails, keeping them lined up and allowing electricity to flow through the track.
Contents
What is a Fishplate?
A fishplate is a metal bar that connects the ends of two railway rails. It is bolted onto the sides of the rails. This connection makes sure the rails stay in line with each other. It also helps to keep the track strong and continuous.
Why are Fishplates Important?
Fishplates are very important for railway safety. They prevent the ends of the rails from moving apart. This movement could cause a train to derail, which means it would go off the tracks. By holding the rails together, fishplates help trains stay on their path. They also help spread the weight of the train evenly across the track.
How Fishplates Work
Fishplates are designed to fit snugly against the sides of the rails. They have holes that match holes in the rail ends. Strong bolts are then passed through these holes and tightened. This creates a very secure connection. The shape of the fishplate helps it wedge itself tightly between the rail's top and bottom parts.
History of the Fishplate
The first railway fishplate was invented a long time ago. It was patented in 1847 by two engineers, William Adams and Robert Richardson. Before fishplates, railway tracks were harder to join. Their invention made railway construction much easier and safer. It allowed for longer and more stable railway lines.
Fishplates in Model Railways
In the hobby of model railways, fishplates are also used. They connect the smaller, model train tracks. These model fishplates are often made of copper or nickel silver. They not only hold the tracks together but also help electricity flow between the track sections. This electricity powers the model trains.
Images for kids
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The first railway fishplate, patented by William Adams and Robert Richardson in 1847
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Fishplates provide a poor electrical bond between two rails, which is supplemented when tracks carry current by welding a length of wire spanning the rail sections directly
