Insulated Rail Joints & Rail Ancillaries

Network Rail is undertaking market research to assess the current level of industry interest, capability and capacity for the manufacture and supply of Insulated Rail Joints (IRJs) and Rail Ancillaries (Closure Rails). These goods will be required to be manufactured to specified standards, supplied in varying lengths and configurations, and delivered to meet both planned and emergency operational requirements.

The Information Document available via Bravo provides full details of the requirement, including:

• Background to the requirement and the operational context
• Technical specifications for all IRJ and Closure Rail types
• Applicable rail profiles, joint configurations and manufacturing processes
• Anticipated monthly and annual volumes based on historic demand
• Expected lead times, including short‑notice and emergency supply requirements
• Compliance obligations, including relevant Network Rail standards, drawings and Product Acceptance requirements
• Preferred site location considerations to support same‑day and nationwide delivery capability

The following supporting documents will be made available as part of the engagement:

• Network Rail Technical Specification for the Design, Assembly and Testing of Glued Insulated Rail Joints (November 2025)
• Standards:

– RT/CE/S/023 Insulated Rail Joints

– RT/CE/S/050 Process for Cold‑Expanding New Fishbolt Holes by the Split Sleeve Method (NR/SP/TRK/050)

– NR/L3/TRK/4004 Switch and Crossing Assemblies

• RE/PW Drawings:

– RE/PW/624 (Twisted Closure Rails)

– RE/PW/549 (95RBH)

– RE/PW/792 (CEN56E1)

– RE/PW/979 (CEN60E2)

• NR/L2/TRK/2049 Track Design Handbook

Product Acceptance (PA) is required before supply may commence. PA activities may form part of mobilisation, and the contract will not move into delivery until PA is fully approved by Network Rail. Suppliers will be expected to support the PA process by providing the necessary technical documentation, evidence and sample materials as required.

Suppliers are invited to review the Information Document and complete the questionnaire within the PQQ. The information gathered will help Network Rail understand current market capability, production capacity, compliance readiness and the ability to meet the supply requirements for IRJs and Closure Rails.

This market engagement is issued for information‑gathering purposes only and does not constitute a call for competition, nor does participation or non‑participation affect eligibility for any future procurement opportunity.