SAIL initiates trial production of High-Strength Rails for Metro and Freight Corridors

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) is embarking on a significant milestone by commencing the trial production of head-hardened (HH) rails, specially designed for metro rail and freight corridor projects. SAIL's Chairman, Amarendu Prakash, has unveiled the company's plans, marking a promising development in the field of rail technology.

Initial Timeline Adjustments

Initially, SAIL had set its sights on launching the trial production of HH rails in August. However, the timeline had to be deferred due to a surge in demand for standard rails, particularly the 880-grade variety, by the Indian Railways. Prakash explained this adjustment in a recent interview with PTI.

Unveiling Advanced Rail Technology

Head-hardened (HH) rails represent an evolution in rail technology, custom-crafted for deployment in high-speed freight corridors and metro rail initiatives. These specialized rails are crafted using head-hardening technology, endowing them with the capability to withstand approximately 50 percent higher pressure than their conventional counterparts.

Dedicated Production Facilities at Bhilai Steel Plant

SAIL has strategically set up dedicated facilities for HH rail production at the state-of-the-art Universal Rail Mill (URM) within its Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), situated in Chhattisgarh. The cold trials, a crucial phase in the production process, for these advanced rails have already been successfully completed.

SAIL: The Second Player in the Game

With this endeavor, SAIL becomes the second key player in India to manufacture HH rails. Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) is another notable producer of HH rails, boasting a plant located in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh.

SAIL's Multifaceted Contributions to Indian Railways

SAIL's contributions to Indian Railways go beyond the production of high-quality rails. The company also manufactures forged wheels, essential components that form the backbone of the rail network. These wheels are supplied to Indian Railways, facilitating the smooth operation of their extensive rail network.

As SAIL embarks on trial production of HH rails, it not only strengthens its position in the steel industry but also plays a vital role in supporting India's ambitious metro and freight corridor projects. This endeavor underscores the country's commitment to embracing advanced rail technologies for a more efficient and modern railway system.