Pandrol launches rail fastener innovation to reduce track installation time and increase efficiency.

Demonstrated for the first time at major international exhibition InnoTrans, the SD/QuickFit is designed to ensure that very high rates of track construction and maintenance can be achieved, with less reliance on skilled labor.

The QuickFit function works by automatically guiding the rail clip from service (switch-on) to a maintenance position (switch-off), when the coach screw is tightened or loosened. In the parked position, the clip is held securely without intruding into the rail seat, which is how sleepers are delivered to site - pre-assembled as captive units with no loose components, ready for the rail to be threaded through.

Unlike traditional screw-in clips, which require two engineers to manually release clips one by one, the innovative new feature introduces a level of automation that allows the clips to be released together by one engineer. This approach enables modern track-laying machines to install sleepers and fastenings much more quickly.

After in-depth research and collaboration between our UK and French technical teams, we are excited to introduce our innovative QuickFit function to our popular SD range. This brings the benefits of additional mechanization and functionality into our threaded fastening systems, allowing the clip to be moved in a controlled way between positions, which gives many benefits to the contractor.

The result is a lighter, more innovative clip that significantly reduces installation time and labor costs.

As a business we are committed to innovation, collaboration and engineering excellence. Pandrol first invented the modern rail clip in the 1950s and we are committed to continuous innovation to solve customer issues and meet the needs of the rapidly evolving rail industry.

Tom Williams, Head of Design and Process Engineering at Pandrol UK

Part of this update to the SD threaded fastener range involved Pandrol redesigning the plastic insulator not only to stop electrical signals from leaking into the sleeper, but also to improve installation efficiency and reduce strain for engineers. This innovation is expected to ensure they become even more widely used on metro networks, due to their electrical insulation properties.

About the SD Range

The SD Range is a durable and reliable threaded fastening solution that has been developed to retrofit in SKL shaped rail seats. Fasteners in the SD range feature optimized geometry, which enables automatic installation, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings during installation and maintenance.

The SD range offers various advantages over other screwed systems, which include avoiding ballast entrapment in the fastenings and improved sealing of the dowel to protect the sleeper.