Why does the NYC Subway have so many sections of jointed rail, rather than welded rail, on its lines?
If mainline railroads have adopted welded rail for lower maintenance costs and a smoother ride, why does the NYC Subway still use jointed rail so much? For example, today I was standing at the north end of the N train platform at Astoria Boulevard; there are several sections of jointed rail visible from the platform, and the rails aren't even very carefully bolted together. Same for many sections of the system, indicated by a very rocky ride.
What gives? I asked this question in Trains magazine and the response I got was, "the MTA uses sections of jointed rail measuring X feet in length". Thus I know it does, but why?
If mainline railroads have adopted welded rail for lower maintenance costs and a smoother ride, why does the NYC Subway still use jointed rail so much? For example, today I was standing at the north end of the N train platform at Astoria Boulevard; there are several sections of jointed rail visible from the platform, and the rails aren't even very carefully bolted together. Same for many sections of the system, indicated by a very rocky ride.
What gives? I asked this question in Trains magazine and the response I got was, "the MTA uses sections of jointed rail measuring X feet in length". Thus I know it does, but why?