scope:

Introduction

This Track Work Instruction covers how to maintain dry slide baseplates.

Dry slide baseplates are usually constructed in such a way that they are actually fitted with a 'liner'. It is this liner that is the interface between the bottom of the switch blade and the baseplate. (Liners are sometimes known as 'inserts')

There are several types of dry slide baseplate liner i.e.

Stainless steel

Bronze (alternative names Copper/Tin alloy or CuSn alloy)

Teflon coated

Yellow plastic.

Dry slide baseplates work on the principle of the bottom of the switch rail being able to slide over the baseplate.

Dry slide baseplates are intended to provide:

1. An almost frictionless means of moving the switches.

2. A reduction in the wear and tear on the means by which the switches are moved.

3. A reduction in costs both in manpower and materials usually required in order to lubricate switch chairs.

4. A reduction in delays caused by points failures.

See also separate instructions:

TWI 2S062 How to maintain switch rollers