What is the recommended practice when aligning rail ends before welding?

Aligning rail ends before welding is a critical step to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the weld. The recommended practice is to align according to the rough crown and gauge face. This method ensures that the rail ends are positioned correctly, maintaining the necessary geometry for proper load distribution and rail stability.

The rough crown refers to the elevated center of the rail, designed to facilitate drainage and support proper track geometry. The gauge face is the vertical part of the rail that faces the other rail in a track, which is essential for maintaining the correct distance between the two rails. Proper alignment with respect to these features prevents issues like misalignment during operation, which can lead to excessive wear or failures.

Proper alignment not only promotes safety and performance but also minimizes the risks of weld defects and stress concentration after the welding process is completed. This attention to detail in aligning the rail ends is crucial for achieving a quality thermite weld.