To what specification should rail ends be crowned during alignment of Boutet and Orgo Wide Gap Welds on 136 lb rail?

Crowning the rail ends is a critical procedure during the alignment of Boutet and Orgo Wide Gap Welds, as it ensures proper alignment and stability in the weld area. For 136 lb rail, the appropriate crown height for rail ends should be within the range of .090 - .095 inches. This range allows for optimal weld properties, accommodates thermal expansion, and ensures that the weld joint can handle the stress and strain from operational loads effectively.

Using the correct crown height is essential because it supports the mechanical integrity of the rail and aids in achieving a quality weld. If the crown is too low or too high, it can lead to poor welding conditions, compromising the strength and durability of the joint. The selected specification ensures that the ends of the rails are geometrically suitable for the thermite welding process, thus maximizing the performance of the welds once completed.