The Gantrex® solution for rail welding

Modern handling equipment require a smooth and continuous rail track. Consequently, rails must be butt-welded to avoid shocks at joints, as well as damage to wheels and other mechanical parts. The geometry of DIN 536/1 type rails is such that it prevents any other technique for joining the rails. Practically, two crane rail welding methods are used, on the ground or at height : Enclosed arc using electrodes. Alumino-thermic welding.

Enclosed arc welding

• Technology :
  
  The void between the ends of the rail is filled with a continuous layer of fillet welds.
  
• Equipment :
  
  - permanent basic equipment : material for adjustment and pre-heating, set of electrolytic copper blocks, power transformer, grinding equipment.
  - consumables : specially adapted electrodes, heat insulation plates to protect the pad.
  
  
• Implementation :
  
  - the technique requires qualified rail welders.
  - welding instructions available.
  

Alumino-thermic welding

• Technology :

  The steel obtained by combining iron oxide with aluminium is cast at over 2000°C in a refractory mould matching the rail profile.

• Equipment :

- permanent basic equipment : material for adjustment, mould fixing, pre-heating, casting and finishing off.
- consumables : mould adapted to the rail profile, welding charge and igniter.

• Implementation :
  
  - this technique gives excellent results, and is independent of atmospheric and operational conditions.
  - the implementation of this technique requires qualified welders. GANTRY can provide you with the necessary training and qualification of your welders, or carry out the welding operation.
  - welding instructions available.