Description
Cembre AR266D-16.5 Rail Web Bush Connection Kit
The Cembre AR266D-16.5 bush kit provides a permanent, low-resistance electrical connection to the rail web for demanding railway signalling, traction return and bonding applications.
Unlike welded or conventional clamped connections, the Cembre AR system uses a precision-drilled hole in the rail web. A conductive bush then expands under controlled force to create a gas-tight, metal-to-metal electrical interface with the rail.
Cembre AR266D-16.5 Bush Kit for Rail Connections
Once correctly installed, the AR266D-16.5 provides a highly reliable electrical connection with excellent resistance to vibration, weather and atmospheric exposure. As a result, the connection maintains stable, low contact resistance over the long service life expected from railway infrastructure.
Because the connection uses mechanical expansion rather than heat, the installation process creates no heat-affected zone in the rail. Therefore, it avoids the metallurgical changes associated with welded rail bonds and is suitable for demanding rail applications, including head-hardened rail.
Cembre AR266D-16.5 Bush Kit Applications
The AR266D-16.5 rail web bush connection system is suitable for:
- Traction return bonding
- Rail continuity bonding
- Ground and earthing connections
- Substation rail connections
- Electrical drainage connections
- Signal track circuit continuity
- Signal track circuit connections
Once installed, the bush creates a permanent interface with the rail. However, the external cable connections can still be inspected, removed or replaced without disturbing that interface. Consequently, maintenance and future upgrades become simpler.
Double-Sided Rail Web Connection
The AR266D-16.5 is a double-sided rail web bush kit designed for applications that require electrical connections on both sides of the rail.
In addition, the kit suits rail web thicknesses from 14 to 16.5 mm and uses an M10 bolt connection. Installation requires a precision 13.5 mm rail web hole.
For best results, we recommend using the Cembre CY135 Broach Cutter with a compatible Cembre rail drilling machine.
Reliable Mechanical Rail Bond Installation
Cembre designed the AR system to provide a controlled and repeatable installation method. Unlike thermal bonding, the process does not depend on welding conditions or operator welding skill.
Instead, dedicated Cembre installation tooling pulls a calibrated mandrel through the conductive bush. As a result, the bush expands against the rail web and forms the permanent electrical interface.
Therefore, correct installation of the AR266D-16.5 requires the 10.5T-M9 installation mandrel with compatible Cembre hydraulic tooling.
Cembre AR266D-16.5 Bush Kit Specifications
- Double-sided rail web bush kit
- Suitable for 14–16.5 mm rail web thickness
- Supplied with M10 bolt kit
- Requires a 13.5 mm hole in the rail web
- Cembre CY135 Broach Cutter recommended
- Requires 10.5T-M9 installation mandrel
- Designed for permanent low-resistance rail electrical connections
- Suitable for railway signalling, traction return and bonding applications
For further technical information on Cembre rail electrical connection systems, visit Cembre’s official Railroad Contacts and Connectors range.
AR266D-16.5 Installation Tooling
For best drilling performance, we recommend using Cembre’s CY Broach Cutters with a compatible Cembre rail drilling machine.
For battery-powered installation, use the Cembre B1300TEP-T Battery Hydraulic Installation Tool.
Alternatively, the Cembre HTEP Manual Hydraulic Installation Tool provides a manual hydraulic installation option.
Complete Cembre Rail Connection System
Engineering Supplies supplies the complete Cembre rail connection system, including AR rail web bushes, battery and manual hydraulic installation tools, mandrels, CY broach cutters, rail drills, gauges, spare parts and accessories.
Furthermore, our experienced team can provide technical assistance with selecting the correct Cembre rail connection system for your rail profile and electrical bonding application.
For further technical information on Cembre rail electrical connection systems, visit Cembre’s official Railroad Contacts and Connectors range.
Get a Quote
For pricing, availability or technical assistance with the Cembre AR266D-16.5 rail web bush connection kit, contact Engineering Supplies on (08) 9258 8444 or email sales@engsup.com.au.
