A rail tie plate is a thick steel panel which sits between the steel rails and ties on a standard railroad. In general, rail tie plates are tapered at each end to improve the stability and reduce twisting and torsion along the rails. According to practice, steel rails installed with tie plates are better able to maintain their position, which helps to standardize the gauge of the track along its length. During the railroad construction, rail engineers and workers use rail tie plates to prolong the lifespan of a new track installation, which ensures maximum safety of railroad transportation.