Calgary Public Art – “The Pandrol Clip”
“An important component in keeping Calgary’s CTrain system together is the Pandrol Clop. The Pandrol Clip is part of a railway fastening system developed in 1959 by Norwegian railway engineer Per Pande Rolfsen.
Physically the clip weighs less than two pounds and has a diameter of 20 approximately millimeters. However, this system offers a lightweight, low-cost rail fastener where spring and torsion works together to provide a high clamping force – each Clip exerts a force of approximately two tonnes on the foot of the rail.
This holds the rail foot in place, keeping the rail fastened to the underlying base-plate. The proven benefits of the Pandrol Clop include a very long and virtually maintenance free life. It is safe, secure, can be inserted and removed manually, and will continue to grip the rail under vibration.
Pandrol Clops are now used by hundreds of railway systems around the world.
The Pandrol Clip is a symbol of strength and endurance of Calgary Transit’s service to the community.”
– City of Calgary, Calgary Transit
Location
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“Strength and Endurance”
The Pandrol Clip is a subtle piece of public art in Calgary found on the south side of 10th Street Bridge and 4th Avenue SW. Oddly enough, its shape can definitely be considered an art form to those who know what its functionality is and to those who don’t.
As mentioned above by the City of Calgary, its strength and endurance is symbolic of that in the community, characteristics that were undoubtedly shown during the floods in June of 2013.
Tens of thousands of people rallied together to clean up, make donations and help whoever was in need… everyone who participated was a “pandrol clip” in the community, showing strength and endurance to persevere in the face of adversity.
The City of Calgary was absolutely right. What do you think of this piece of Calgary public art? Leave us a comment below and share with us your thoughts!
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