A fishplate, also known as a splice bar or joint bar, is a metal plate used to connect two rails and form a continuous track. The term “fish” is derived from the wooden reinforcement used in shipbuilding to help round out a mast’s desired shape. When a fishplate is inserted and tightened with bolts during installation, its top and bottom faces taper inwards along their short dimensions, ensuring an even alignment between the two rails.
In the context of rail transport modelling, a fishplate is typically a small copper or nickel-silver plate that slides onto both rails. Its purpose is to maintain alignment and provide electrical continuity between the rails.
Tshering Dorji Changed status to publish 04/20/2023
