Insulated Rail Joints Repair System
Insulated rail joints (hereafter IRJs) form part of the train detection system and are used to divide the rail track into sections.
A crucial component (in addition to the actual separation) is the end post, also known as the (plastic) profile plate between the rails. The end post is subject to wear and tear. When lipping has caused the joint gap to be obstructed, or the end post is partly missing or damaged, these problems can effectively be solved with the aid of our low-emission End Post Rehabilitator kit. In view of the durability of the end post’s enhancement, it is of essential importance that first the IRJs geometrics are inspected, and if necessary repaired according to the local maintenance instructions.
Conditions
The end post of the IRJ must be enhanced according to the prescribed werking method. Do not execute the activities in weather conditions that are too cold or too wet. For an optimal performance of the product, the minimum environmental temperature should be 41°F/5°C, and the surface fully dry, clean, as well as free of rust and grease. The optimum temperature for the application of all products lies around a rail temperature of about 70°F/21°C. See the curing times table for the various application and rail temperatures. For the product to perform in an optimum menner, these times must be maintained.
Storage
The products must be stored conform the local laws and regulations. The optimum storage conditions for the products are: in a well-ventilated space with a temperature between 64°and 73° F/18-23°C; away from heat or ignition sources, strong acids, bases, oxidants, and direct sunlight. All products can be stored for a maximum of 24 months; see the expiry dates on the packages. The use-by date can only be guaranteed if the products are stored under adequate conditions. We recommend storing the Antistatic Coating and Joint Primer horizontally to ensure that the workable substances in these products remain completely liquid.
Required Tools
In addition to the Personal Protective Equipment in accordance with the guidelines of the railway operator, the following items should be used: safety goggles, dust cover, gloves, an angle grinder with a 4 mm or 1 /8″ grinding disc (A24RSG,125×4 mm) for steel, a duster, and cleaning rags. In cold and/or moist weather, we recommend using a heat gun to speed up the curing time and/or an umbrella to prevent the joint from becoming wet.
Lifespan Extension
The prescribed method can significantly extend the service life of the IRJ, provided that all operations are performed and all products in the system are used as described. Inaccurate and/or hasty work, or non-adherence to the working method instructed, may lead to premature damage to the end post filling. lf our pre-described working method is not followed, and/or if different products are used, we cannot guarantee an optimum performance of the repair system.