Rails should be inspected for flaws specially, when the rails show signs of fatigue and the rail wear is excessive. The detection of rail flaws is done either by visual examination of the rail or by ultrasonic rail flaw detection.
1.Visual examination of Rails –
Most of the rail flaws develop at the rail ends. Rail ends should be examined for cracks during the lubrication of rail joints by cleaning the surface of the rail by wire brushes and using a magnifying glass. A small mirror is of assistance in examining the underside of rails. Such an inspection on the important girder bridges and their approaches should be done twice a year.
2.Ultrasonic testing of rails–
