Description
Cembre AR6516 Rail Web Bush Connection Kit
The Cembre AR6516 bush kit provides a permanent, low-resistance electrical connection to the rail web. It is designed for demanding railway signalling, traction return and bonding applications.
The AR6516 uses a precision-drilled hole in the rail web. A conductive bush is then installed under controlled expansion. As a result, the bush forms a gas-tight, metal-to-metal electrical interface with the rail without welding or conventional clamped connections.
Cembre AR6516 Bush Kit – Permanent Rail Connections
Once correctly installed, the Cembre AR6516 provides a highly reliable rail electrical connection. In addition, the connection offers excellent resistance to vibration, weather exposure and atmospheric conditions.
The mechanically expanded bush maintains stable, low contact resistance over the long service life expected from railway infrastructure.
Because installation is mechanical rather than thermal, there is no heat-affected zone in the rail. Therefore, the process avoids the metallurgical changes associated with welded rail bonds. This makes the system suitable for demanding rail applications, including head-hardened rail.
Cembre AR6516 Bush Kit Applications
The AR6516 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 the bush is installed, cable connections can be inspected, removed or replaced without disturbing the permanent rail interface. Consequently, maintenance is simplified and future cable or infrastructure upgrades can be completed without repeatedly modifying the rail.
Reliable Mechanical Rail Bond Installation
Installation is carried out using dedicated Cembre rail drilling and bush installation tooling. This provides a controlled and repeatable installation process.
Unlike thermal bonding methods, installation does not depend on welding conditions or operator welding technique. Therefore, consistent rail connections can be achieved in demanding railway maintenance environments.
For preparation of the required 22 mm rail web hole, we recommend the Cembre CY220 Broach Cutter. It is designed for use with compatible Cembre rail drilling machines.
Cembre AR6516 Bush Kit Specifications
- Single-sided rail web bush kit
- Suitable for 14–16.5 mm rail web thickness
- Supplied with M12 bolt kit
- Requires a 22 mm hole in the rail web
- Cembre CY220 Broach Cutter recommended
- Requires OG16.2T installation mandrel
- Designed for permanent low-resistance rail electrical connections
- Suitable for railway signalling, traction return and bonding applications
Cembre Rail Bush Installation Tooling
For battery-powered installation, use the Cembre B1300TEP-T Battery Hydraulic Installation Tool.
In addition, the AR6516 requires the larger Cembre RHTEPE-16 Installation Head for correct installation.
For drilling the required 22 mm rail web hole, use the Cembre CY220 Broach Cutter with the appropriate Cembre rail drilling machine.
Complete Cembre Rail Connection System
Engineering Supplies supplies the complete Cembre rail connection system. This includes AR rail web bushes, rail drilling machines, CY broach cutters, installation tooling, mandrels, spare parts and accessories.
Furthermore, our team can assist with selecting the correct bush, tooling and drilling equipment for your rail profile and electrical connection application.
For further technical information on the AR connection system, see Cembre’s official rail contacts and connectors range.
Get a Quote
For pricing, availability or technical assistance with the Cembre AR6516 rail web bush connection kit, contact Engineering Supplies on (08) 9258 8444 or email sales@engsup.com.au.
