The railway fastening system is a key component connecting rails and sleepers and mainly plays the following important roles:

Rail Fixing
Firmly fix the rail on the sleeper to prevent longitudinal and lateral displacement of the rail during train operation. Ensure that the rail always remains in the correct position when the train is running and provides a stable rolling surface for the wheels.
For example, during the running of a high-speed train, if the rail displaces, it may lead to serious accidents such as derailment. The firm fixing function of the fastening system is extremely important.

Sleeper Fixing
Make the sleeper closely combined with the ballast bed to prevent the sleeper from loosening under the repeated action of trains. Ensure that the sleeper can evenly bear the pressure from the rail and transfer the pressure to the ballast bed.
For example, on heavy-haul railways, due to the large weight of trains, the pressure on sleepers is also very large. The fastening system can ensure the stability of sleepers and prolong the service life of sleepers.

Reducing Vibration and Impact
Trains will generate vibration and impact during running. The elastic components in the fastening system can absorb and buffer these vibrations and impacts, reducing adverse effects on the track structure and trains.
For example, elastic elements such as rubber pads and springs can effectively reduce the transmission of vibration to sleepers and ballast beds and improve the smoothness and comfort of train running.

Protecting Track Structure
The buffering function can reduce the damage of trains to rails, sleepers and ballast beds and prolong the service life of the track structure. Reduce track component damage caused by vibration and impact and reduce maintenance costs.
For example, on lines with frequent train passes, the good buffering function of the fastening system can reduce the number of track maintenance and improve the operational efficiency of railways.

Gauge Adjustment
The distance between rails can be adjusted as needed to ensure that the gauge always remains within the specified range. The accuracy of the gauge is crucial for the safe operation of trains. The fastening system can achieve precise gauge adjustment.
For example, during the maintenance of railway lines, if gauge changes are found, the components in the fastening system can be adjusted to correct gauge deviations.

Height Adjustment
Used to adjust the height position of the rail to keep the rail surface flat. During railway construction and operation, due to terrain changes, ballast bed settlement and other reasons, the height of the rail may change. The fastening system can be adjusted to ensure the smooth running of trains.
For example, before the opening of a new railway line, fine adjustment of the height of the rail is required. The fastening system provides the possibility for this adjustment.

In conclusion, the railway fastening system is an indispensable part of the railway track structure. Its performance is directly related to the safety, smooth operation and service life of railways.