Rails are perhaps the most common object to be found on a railroad track and the most expensive. They are made out of steel and allow a train to run on a smooth surface. A train's movement and direction are also dependent on how the rail is positioned.
Sleepers, or switch ties, are rectangular-shaped platforms that are found underneath the rail. They are positioned horizontally and provide a base for the entire track. Sleepers are used to evenly distribute train weight and hold the rail upright. Switch ties are normally made out of hardwood or softwood, although concrete, plastic composite and steel sleepers are becoming more coming common.
Rail joints can be found on the inside part of each rail and are used to hold two rail bars together. Their purpose is to prevent rails from moving apart from each other and prevent train derailment. They are rectangular-shaped and contain holes to allow bolting.
Many modern railroad tracks contain an overhead line that runs parallel to the track rails. The line is positioned just above train height, allowing it to make contact with the top part of a train. The line supplies a train with electricity and allows passengers to use power outlets while traveling. Overhead lines are commonly used for locomotives, streetcars and light rail vehicles.
Another item that could be found in a railroad track is a platform door system. Platform door systems are composed of glass doors that automatically open when a train is available for boarding and will close when a train is about to leave a station. The doors prevent individuals from falling onto a railroad track, especially when there is an oncoming train. Altogether, platform door systems are a recent advancement that have been used to prevent accidents and suicide attempts as well as lower track litter and improve station climate control.
Railroad tracks will often include signs to prevent unnecessary accidents. Signage may indicate to an automobile driver that there is an upcoming railroad track he should be wary of or that there is a track no longer in use. Others may indicate specific safety instructions such as not passing a stopped train. Regardless of their content, each sign should be adhered to in order to preserve lives and comply with traffic laws.
