a composite minimum - joint electrified rail is constructed by combining a non - conductive support rail divided into easily installed segments with a continuous conductive rail that mounts on the support rail and spans any number of support rail segments . the conductive rail may be attached to the non - conductive rail by a tongue and groove arrangement . multiple conductive rails or strips may be attached to different portions of the same support rail . in addition spring clips are shown for attaching the support rail to railroad ties or roadbed , and fish plates are shown for attaching abutted support rails .