RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

Dave McConnell is pictured installing the load pins.  These pins can be moved so to test in a 3-point or 4-point bending configuration.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

Here the support pins are installed.  These are needed so that the sample rail can be easily slid into the tester.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

Hans Iwand is pictured demonstrating how the Rail Breaker hoist can lift sample rail from the ground into the Rail Breaker, minimizing physical labor.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

Once the rail has been lifted to the height of the tester, the sample rail can be easily slid into the Rail Breaker on the support pins.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

The rail is centered in the Rail Breaker to insure proper loading.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Preparation

Finally, before testing can commence, a chain is wrapped around the rail to prevent movement after fracture.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Results

Pictured below is an example of welded rail tested by the RSIME Rail Breaker.  Using the Rail Breaker during the installation of rail allows the user to periodically test the quality of welds.

RSIME Rail Breaker Operation: Rail Breaking Results

Pictured below is an example of a non-welded rail tested by the RSIME Rail Breaker.  By 3-point bending the rail, a pre-existing crack was found in the head of the rail.  Early detection of defects like this one help reduce track failures later on.