Elastic polyurethane elastomers TINES® Polyrail

Polyurethanes, also known as PUR or PU materials, are polymers formed as a result of the additive polymerization reaction of polyalcohols with isocyanates. The polymerization process is accompanied by a series of auxiliary agents. A characteristic feature of the structure of all polyurethanes is the presence of the urethane group [-O-CO-NH-] in the main polymer chain. However, their composition can be largely adapted to user needs.

TINES® Polyrail materials are a series of polyurethane elastomers with hardness ranging from 35 to 95 Shore A. They are produced from raw materials obtained in sustainable production processes that utilize recycled materials, such as PET plastics. Polyurethane resins are two-component (base + hardener), chemically curable, permanently elastic (even at higher hardness levels), resistant to atmospheric conditions, chemicals (lubricants, oils, gasoline), and microorganisms. As a result, they maintain their properties for a long time, meaning they do not require frequent replacement or maintenance. They do not conduct electrical charges and protect the tracks from the influence of stray currents. They are characterized by high resistance to abrasion, tearing, and stretching.

Pouring compounds of the TINES® Polyrail series in the construction of railroads are used for systems of continuous or point, elastic attachment of rails. They demonstrate excellent adhesion to steel and concrete surfaces, forming durable connections in rail attachment systems. Thanks to their elastic properties and a unique formula that allows for work under variable dynamic load conditions, they provide effective vibration insulation of these connections.

During application, the resin is poured between the concrete surface and the rail, depending on the design section of the track provided in the project (e.g., in point underlay – under ribbed pads, in the rail-in-sheath system – in the rail channel). Pouring compounds can also be used to fill gaps between the track surface and the road surface.

Vibrations and noise generated in railroads, in which polyurethane pouring compounds have been used, are dampened by them at the source of their emission. Thanks to the elasticity of these materials, the negative impact of railways or tram lines on the adjacent infrastructure is less noticeable, and it also positively affects the acoustic comfort of people in their vicinity. Using TINES® Polyrail compounds in rail transport allows for improved safety and riding comfort by protecting trains and passengers from vibrations.