SIST EN 13146-2:2012

Overview

SIST EN 13146-2:2012 - Railway applications - Track - Test methods for fastening systems - Part 2: Determination of torsional resistance specifies a standardized laboratory test procedure to measure the torsional resistance of rail fastening systems. This European standard, developed by the Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo (SIST), is essential for ensuring the stability and safety of railway tracks. The test determines the moment required to rotate a rail, fastened to a sleeper, by 1° in a plane parallel to the rail base. The data provided by this method supports track stability calculations and overall system performance assessment.

Key Topics

• Test Scope and Applicability

  • Applies to complete rail fastening assemblies installed on sleepers.
  • Not applicable to embedded rails or incomplete assemblies.

• Laboratory Test Procedure

  • Outlines the setup for securing a short rail to a sleeper using the fastening assembly.
  • Details the method for applying a transverse load and measuring the angular displacement until a 1° rotation is achieved.
  • Specifies calibration requirements for all measuring instruments in compliance with European and international standards.

• Instrumentation

  • Use of actuators, displacement measuring devices, and force sensors calibrated per EN ISO 7500-1 and EN ISO 9513.
  • Requirements for accuracy and periodic verification of calibration.

• Data Reporting

  • Requires documentation of test parameters, specimen details, types of fastenings, and graphical results showing the relationship between applied moment and angular displacement.

Applications

• Track Stability Assessments

  • Essential for railway engineers and manufacturers to verify the torsional rigidity of fastening systems.
  • Data obtained informs the design and maintenance of safe, stable track structures under operational loads.

• Quality Control

  • Fastening systems must meet torsional resistance criteria to ensure compliance with European and national railway safety requirements.

• Research and Development

  • Facilitates comparative evaluations of different rail fastening designs or materials.
  • Supports continued innovation in railway infrastructure by providing a repeatable, objective testing methodology.

• Performance Verification

  • Used by testing laboratories, suppliers, and infrastructure owners to validate product claims and support technical audits.

Related Standards

• EN 13146 Series (Railway applications - Track - Test methods for fastening systems)

  • Part 1: Determination of longitudinal rail restraint
  • Part 3: Determination of attenuation of impact loads
  • Part 4: Effect of repeated loading
  • Part 5: Determination of electrical resistance
  • Part 6: Effect of severe environmental conditions
  • Part 7: Determination of clamping force
  • Part 8: In service testing
  • Part 9: Determination of stiffness

• EN 13481 Series

  • Performance requirements for fastening systems

• EN ISO 7500-1: Verification of static uniaxial testing machines

• EN ISO 9513: Calibration of extensometers

Practical Value

Implementing SIST EN 13146-2:2012 ensures that railway fastening systems used across Europe are tested consistently for torsional resistance, promoting interoperability and safety in international rail networks. Specifying clear procedures for test execution and reporting, the standard supports manufacturers, infrastructure managers, and regulators in meeting stringent safety and performance criteria for modern railway operations. This promotes cost-efficient maintenance, reliable infrastructure, and public trust in rail transport systems.