Rail Track Components Crossword Puzzle

QUESTIONS LIST:

• cropping : the process of reducing rail length by removing a portion at its ends, usually to remove rail defects or bolt holes.
• tie plates : a metal plate placed between the rail base and tie to distribute the weight of trains over a larger surface, thereby reducing tie damage. this device also gives lateral stability to the rail by restraining movement.
• joint stagger : positioning rail joints so they do not fall directly opposite, thus increasing track strength.
• cant : to lean or tilt an object, such as a rail, slightly from level.
• cwr : rail lengths welded end to end into rail strings providing a track without rail joints.
• tie plug : a small wooden piece cut to the size of a spike for the purpose of filling in the hole that occurs when a spike is pulled out.
• heat treated rail : rail that has been hardened by a heating and quenching process. used at locations of extreme service, such as curves.
• tie pad : a material made from rubber or fiber placed between tie plate and tie to reduce abrasion, inhibit plate cutting, and cushion load impact.
• jointed rail : a term applied to fastening or connecting rail ends by means of rail joints, as opposed to welding them.
• rail anchor : a device installed on the rail base preventing longitudinal rail movement and build lip of axial force.