Why Don’t Railroads Need Expansion Joints?

Veritasium

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Railroads have played a crucial role in transportation for centuries, but have you ever wondered why there aren't expansion joints in rail tracks? In a captivating video titled 'Why Don't Railroads Need Expansion Joints?' by Veritasium, the host takes us through the fascinating history and science behind this engineering marvel.

The video starts with a dramatic showcase of thermite reactions, exploring how liquid metal can be produced through a unique chemical process. While thermite reactions initially found limited applications in repairing heavy machinery, it was eventually considered for use in welding rail tracks together.

Traditionally, rail tracks were joined with fish plates, leaving small gaps between each rail. These gaps, though creating the classic 'ta-tak, ta-tak' sound as trains passed over them, caused the tracks to flex, leading to increased wear on wheels and the need for frequent maintenance. Dr. Hans Goldschmidt introduced the idea of welding rail tracks together with thermite steel, but it faced initial skepticism from railway managers.

The fundamental reason for retaining the gaps between rail tracks lies in the nature of metals to expand and contract with temperature changes. Railroads are exposed to diverse weather conditions, causing the steel tracks to shrink in cold winters and expand in hot summers. Without proper gaps, the risk of tracks buckling and potential train derailments becomes a significant concern.

Tram rails in city streets were among the first to experiment with welding to eliminate the familiar sound of wheels passing over joints. The video takes us through the meticulous process of welding rail tracks together using thermite steel, emphasizing the importance of precise alignment and temperature control to ensure a seamless connection.

As the host demonstrates the complex steps involved in welding rails together, viewers gain insight into the challenges faced by professionals in maintaining railway infrastructure. The video highlights the skill and precision required to weld rail tracks effectively, showcasing how advancements in technology have revolutionized this critical aspect of railroad engineering.

Ultimately, the video provides a captivating exploration of the science and engineering behind rail tracks, offering a deeper understanding of why expansion joints are not needed in modern railway systems. By blending educational content with engaging visuals and storytelling, 'Why Don't Railroads Need Expansion Joints?' serves as an enlightening resource for anyone interested in the fascinating world of transportation infrastructure

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