Comparison of train and tram tracks
Railways and tramways incorporate track on which rail vehicles travel over two parallel steel beams, called rails. The rails, anchored by a variety of fixtures, in turn support and guide the vehicles' wheels. The vehicles are of two main types: either trains or trams, the former being much heavier than the latter. This difference necessitates two separate criteria in designing and manufacturing train and tram tracks.
Rail/wheel configuration
The diagram shows typical wheel and rail profiles for tramways and railways. The tramway design, which is embedded in the ground, is used when other traffic is present, such as motor vehicles and pedestrians.As shown in the diagram, compared to wheels on railway rolling stock, tram wheels have a smaller tread resting on the rail and a smaller flange preventing sideways movement. Coning of the tread is matched by the rail profile and inclination of the rail.
When trams travel in corridors reserved for them, it is usual for them to run on track configured the same as on railways, as in the right-hand diagram, the only difference being:
- in the case of wheels, the smaller profile
- in the case of rails, a smaller gap between the load-bearing rail and a guard rail at crossings.