EN 15273 is a European standard specifying railway track gauge dimensions, tolerances, and measurement methods for safe and interoperable operations.

Why is EN 15273 important?

It ensures rolling stock can safely operate across different European networks by standardizing track gauge dimensions and tolerances.

How does EN 15273 relate to EN 12561?

EN 15273 ensures track gauge compatibility, complementing EN 12561 which defines freight wagon dimensions for interoperability.

Who should follow EN 15273?

Infrastructure managers, railway operators, rolling stock manufacturers, and certification authorities apply EN 15273 for safe and interoperable operations.

Defining the Rails: EN 15273 and European Track Gauge Standards Explained

EN 15273 defines the dimensional and technical requirements for railway track gauges, ensuring safe and interoperable operation of rolling stock across Europe.

November 5, 2023 6:46 pm

What Is EN 15273?

EN 15273 is a European standard that specifies the dimensional and technical requirements for railway track gauges.
It ensures that rolling stock can operate safely and interoperably across national and international rail networks.

Importance of EN 15273 in Railway Operations

Track gauge uniformity is critical for interoperability, train stability, and operational safety. EN 15273 defines the nominal gauges, tolerances, and measurement methods for both freight and passenger railways in Europe.

Specifies nominal track gauge and tolerances
Defines measurement methods and verification procedures
Ensures safe operation of rolling stock on standard and mixed networks
Supports cross-border interoperability of trains

Scope and Technical Coverage

EN 15273 covers both conventional and high-speed railway lines, detailing the allowable deviations in gauge, track components, and measurement methodology.

Nominal gauge dimensions for standard track
Permissible tolerance ranges for track gauge
Measurement and inspection procedures
Compatibility requirements with rolling stock wheelsets
Application for freight and passenger networks

Key Technical Parameters

Parameter	Description	Operational Impact
Nominal Gauge	Standard track gauge measurement between rails	Ensures rolling stock compatibility and safe operation
Gauge Tolerance	Allowed deviation from nominal gauge	Prevents derailments and reduces maintenance issues
Measurement Method	Defined procedures for checking track gauge	Supports consistent quality control across networks
Compatibility with Rolling Stock	Ensures wheelsets match track gauge and tolerances	Maintains safety, ride quality, and interoperability

Relationship with Other Standards

EN 15273 complements EN 12561, EN 13749, and TSI standards by ensuring that rolling stock dimensions, braking systems, and operational characteristics are compatible with track geometry.
It also aligns with UIC gauge standards for international interoperability.

Supports TSI Infrastructure and Rolling Stock requirements
Aligns with EN 12561 for wagon dimensions
Works with UIC gauge and interoperability rules

Who Uses EN 15273?

The standard is applied by infrastructure managers, rolling stock manufacturers, railway operators, and certification authorities to ensure safe and interoperable railway operations.