Have you ever wondered why train tracks have stones? Here’s the answer

Many of us must have traveled by train at least once. When you travel by train, you must have seen why there are stones on the railway track. What is the connection between the movement of the train and these stones? Let's take a detailed look at this.

These crushed stones on the railway tracks are called track ballast, and they help to keep the railway tracks in place. Concrete beams are laid between the railway tracks. These stones on the track prevent these beams from widening. If the stones are not poured, the train track may derail and cause an accident.

Why is only a certain type of stone used on railway tracks?

Only sharp stones are used on railway tracks. If smooth, round pebbles, such as those used in riverbeds or for decoration, are used on railway tracks, they may roll or slip when the train passes over the railway tracks.

Track ballast refers to the sharp stones on the railway tracks. They are filled around the railway tracks. These stones are used to keep the railway tracks straight and properly spaced.

Therefore, the wrong type of stone will not fulfill the main function of track ballast to provide support to the railway tracks. Only stones that do not move much are suitable for use on the track.

That's why stones with sharp edges are used on railway tracks to stabilize the track.

The presence of these stones on the railway tracks prevents plants from growing on them. Because it will weaken the ground on which the railway tracks run. Track ballast prevents water from constantly reaching the track and softening the ground. It does not completely block water from the railway tracks, but ensures that there is proper drainage under or around the track so that water does not stagnate in it.

Technique used to reduce train vibrations

The immense vibration of a passing train is a threat to nearby buildings, which is also a problem. The railway uses a clamping technique to reduce vibrations with EPDM or ethylene propylene dyne monomer rubber, which has high resistance to heat, water and other mechanical strains. This helps to greatly reduce noise and vibrations.