A railroad fishplate, also known as a rail joint, is a metal bar used to connect two sections of rail on a railroad track. Fishplates are used to maintain the proper spacing and alignment of the rails, allowing trains to pass over them smoothly and safely. They are typically made of steel and are bolted or welded to the ends of the rail sections.
Fishplates are an important part of the rail system, as they help to distribute the load of passing trains evenly across the tracks. They also help to prevent the rails from separating or spreading apart, which can lead to derailments. Fishplates are typically used in conjunction with other track components, such as spikes and tie plates, to ensure the stability and integrity of the rail system.
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