CTB CTB Track Systems & Components

Question 1

What is the primary function of a rail joint bar (fishplate) in a track system?

Accepted Answer

To connect two rail ends mechanically and maintain vertical and horizontal alignment

Answer

Joint bars clamp the web of two adjoining rails to transfer load across the joint and keep rail ends aligned.

Question 2

What is 'gauge' in the context of railroad track?

Accepted Answer

The distance between the inside faces of the two running rails, measured 5/8 inch below the top of rail

Answer

Track gauge is the distance between the inside faces of the rail heads, measured 5/8 inch below the rail top; standard gauge in the US is 4 feet 8½ inches.

Question 3

A turnout (switch) consists of which three main components?

Accepted Answer

Switch points, frog, and closure rails

Answer

A turnout's three main elements are the switch (points), the closure rails connecting to the frog, and the frog where the two routes cross.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a guard rail (check rail) installed at a frog?

Accepted Answer

To keep the wheel flange on the correct path and prevent it from taking the wrong route through the frog

Answer

Guard rails are placed opposite the frog point to guide the wheel flange and ensure wheels traverse the frog correctly without derailing.

Question 5

Rail cant (inclination) on most North American railroads is set at:

Accepted Answer

1 in 40 (toward the track center)

Answer

Rail is inclined at 1:40 toward the track center so the rail head matches the conical tread of the wheel for optimal contact and wear distribution.

CTB - Certified Track Builder Practice Test

CTB - Certified Track Builder Practice Test

CTB CTB Track Systems & Components