The Function of Rubber Pads In Crane Rail Systems

The rubber pads in crane rails are important components specially designed to improve the performance of crane systems. They are usually made of wear-resistant rubber materials. They are widely used in various crane rail systems, including bridge cranes, gantry cranes and other industrial lifting equipment. They play an important role in heavy machinery operations, ports, warehouses and manufacturing industries. In addition to crane rail systems, rubber pads are also often used in railway rail systems to ensure the smooth operation of the rail system.

The rubber pad plays the role of cushioning and shock absorption in the crane rail system. It can reduce the wear and metal fatigue caused by the impact of the rail system, improve the stability of equipment operation and prolong the life of the rail system. In the past track system, no rubber pads were used, and metal collision and friction would occur between the track and the steel beam during the operation of the equipment, resulting in more vibration and shock, which would cause great harm to the equipment and structural facilities. At the same time, the friction of metal will accelerate wear and tear. Rubber pads can solve this problem very well.

The rubber pads in the crane rails have the following main functions:

Shock absorption and noise reduction

The rubber pads can effectively absorb vibration and impact, reduce the noise generated during the operation of the crane, and provide a quieter working environment.

Protect the track

The pad can reduce the direct impact of the crane on the track when it is traveling, extend the service life of the track and reduce wear.

Improve contact

Rubber pads provide better friction, enhance the stability between the crane and the track, and reduce slippage.

Prevent corrosion

Rubber materials have good corrosion resistance and can protect the track from environmental factors (such as water, chemicals, etc.).

Balance the load

By dispersing the weight, rubber pads help to distribute the load of the crane more evenly and avoid excessive local pressure.

Rubber pad classification

There are two types of crane rail pads provided by Glory Rail. They are continuous rail pads and individual rail pads. The materials used in these two types are different, and the application scenarios are also different. Continuous rail pads are mainly used for crane rail systems that require continuous rail support. Individual crane rail pads are designed for the rail system base on individual soleplates.

Continuous rail pads

Continuous rail pads are a type of cushion pads specially designed for railway tracks and heavy-duty rail systems, usually used on long-distance track support structures. This pad is designed to protect the track system and improve its performance and service life by providing continuous shock absorption, sound insulation and load distribution functions. Continuous track pads are very common in railway transportation systems, especially in high-load and high-speed railway applications.

Features of continuous track pads

Continuity design:

Unlike traditional segmented pads, continuous track pads are laid over the entire length of the track, providing more uniform support and shock absorption. Its continuity design ensures that the load and vibration of the entire track system can be more evenly distributed and absorbed, reducing the concentration of local stress.

High durability:

Continuous track pads are usually made of wear-resistant rubber or synthetic materials, with high compression resistance and durability. Able to withstand long-term high-intensity loads and maintain stable performance in all weather conditions.

Good shock absorption effect:

It can effectively absorb the impact and vibration generated by the operation of trains or heavy equipment, reduce damage to the track and roadbed, and improve the comfort and safety of the track system.

Noise and vibration control:

Continuous track pads have good sound insulation effects, especially in high-speed railways or urban rail systems, which can effectively reduce the noise of vehicles during driving and reduce the impact of track vibration on the surrounding environment.

Uniform load distribution:

Through the coverage of continuous pads, the load can be more evenly distributed between the track and the foundation, reducing the concentration of local pressure, extending the service life of the track, and preventing excessive wear between the track and the roadbed.

Prevent track movement and deformation:

Continuous track pads enhance the stability of the track to a certain extent, preventing the track from displacement or deformation during heavy load or long-term use.

Individual rail pads

Individual track pads are a type of buffer pad used in track systems, specifically placed between the rails and the track foundation (such as sleepers or ballast). Unlike continuous track pads, individual track pads are segmented, usually with one pad installed separately under each sleeper. Its main functions are shock absorption, anti-skid, noise reduction, and even load distribution, thereby protecting the track system and extending its service life. Individual track pads are also widely used in crane track systems, especially in the tracks of bridge

Features of individual rail pads:

Segmented installation:

Individual rail pads are installed under each sleeper one by one according to the spacing of the sleepers. Each pad corresponds to a part of the track, so it can provide precise support and cushioning in a local area. They are suitable for track systems that require flexible adjustment, especially in scenarios with uneven load distribution or specific local requirements.

The choice between the two is usually determined by factors such as the specific needs of the track system, load conditions, rail type, and budget cranes, gantry cranes, and other heavy lifting equipment. They are able to provide adequate support, shock absorption, and anti-skid functions in these heavy-load environments, ensuring that the crane runs smoothly on the track. And you can contact us for advice!