What is BS EN 14587‑1-Flash butt welding of new rails about?
BS EN 14587 is a European standard that discusses railway applications.
BS EN 14587‑1 is the first part of the multi-series that specifies requirements for the approval of a welding process in a fixed plant, together with the requirements for subsequent welding production.
BS EN 14587‑1 applies to new Vignole railway rails R220, R260, R260Mn, R320Cr, R350HT, R350LHT, R370CrHT, and R400HT grade rails of 46 kg/m and above, as contained in EN 13674‑1, welded by a flash butt welding process in a fixed plant and intended for use on railway infrastructure.
BS EN 14587‑1 applies to the welding of rails into welded strings.
Who is BS EN 14587‑1- Flash butt welding of new rails for?
BS EN 14587‑1 on flash butt welding of new rails is relevant to:
- Manufacturers, operators, and purchasers of welded joints
- Design engineers
- Welding contractors
- Railway contractors
- Mechanical engineers
- Railway infrastructure authority
- Train operating companies (TOCs)
- Railroad industry
Why should you use BS EN 14587‑1- Flash butt welding of new rails?
Welding the ends of two rails together is a crucial step in the railing process and in repairing broken rails.
BS EN 14587-1 covers five main topics:
- Requirements of a welding process
- Procedure approval for a fixed plant
- Approval of other rail profiles or grades
- Approval of welding contractor
- Weld production following approval
As a result, compliance with BS EN 14587-1 can assist you with enhancing your welding process for flash butt welding of new rails and demonstrate that your products meet the required performance and quality requirements. Incorporating these best industry guidelines can also make positive contributions to your quality management systems for welding processes.

