Essential Definitions for Bus Stop Infrastructure Products
Anodising is a surface treatment for aluminium that hardens the surface and prevents oxidation, commonly resulting in a bright silver finish.
Understanding the terminology used in bus stop infrastructure products, materials, and coatings is crucial for industry professionals and those interested in public transport infrastructure. This glossary provides definitions of key terms, jargon-busting everything from anodising to real time technology.
Each of these terms plays a key role in public transport signage, ensuring clarity, durability, and accessibility. For example:
For official public transport signage regulations, visit the UK Department for Transport – Traffic Signs Manual.
For British Standards in road signs, materials, and coatings, refer to BSI – British Standards for Road Signs & Public Transport.
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Anodising (Plating) A surface treatment for aluminium that hardens the surface and prevents oxidation. Often results in a bright silver finish.
Flag (Bus Flag, Bus Stop Flag, Plate) A flat or fabricated hollow sign attached to a bus stop post, providing visual information for passengers.
Foundation Socket (Socket) An underground metal extrusion that allows a bus stop post to be securely bolted in place while remaining removable when necessary.
Galvanising (Plating) A protective zinc coating applied to steel by dipping it in molten zinc, significantly increasing its durability and corrosion resistance.
Infill Strip (Insert Strip) A powder-coated strip of aluminium or plastic that fits into a bus stop post channel, providing contrast against anodised finishes.
Media Size The maximum printed size for media inside a timetable case.
NFC (Near Field Communication) A short-range wireless technology allowing smartphones to communicate with bus stop endpoints by proximity, commonly used for digital timetable access.
Polycarbonate (Poly, Perspex) A durable material used as the front screen in timetable cases, typically available in 2mm or 3mm thickness with UV stability to prevent yellowing.
Post (Pole, Bus Stop Post) A tubular aluminium or steel structure designed to hold various signage components, often featuring channels for attachments.
Powder Coating (Painting) A dry powder coating applied electrostatically to metal, available in various colours, typically from the RAL powder coating range or BS series.
Pressure Board (Backing Plate, Correx®) A flat plate inside a timetable case that supports printed timetables and is positioned behind the polycarbonate screen.
Priming (Zinc Priming, Undercoat) A process where metal is coated with a primer (often zinc-rich) before powder coating to ensure better adhesion and longevity.
QR (Quick Response Code) A matrix barcode used for quick digital access, often included on signage for timetable and route information.
RAL (Reichs-Ausschuß für Leferbedingungen und Gütesicherung) A standardized colour matching system for powder coating, identified by four-digit codes (e.g., RAL 1234).
Real Time Information (Real Time Passenger Information) A digital system that provides live updates on bus arrival times, delays, and service changes, often displayed on electronic signage or mobile apps.
Roundel (Finnial, Stand ID Plate) A round plate located at the top of a bus stop post, typically displaying a route number or letter.
Route Number Grid (RNG, Service Numbers) A printed grid that displays the numbers of all bus routes servicing a particular stop.
Security Screw (Tamper Proof Fixing) A stainless steel screw with a unique head design that prevents removal using standard tools, increasing security.
Tile (Route Tile, E-Tile) A square or rectangular display that slots into a flag, allowing route number stickers to be attached.
Timetable Housing (Timetable Cluster) A configuration of two or more timetable cases mounted onto a bracket and attached to a bus stop post. Commonly available in 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way setups.
TRO Plate (Time Plate, Sign Plate, Traffic Plate, Clearway Plate) A sign fitted to a bus stop post, used in conjunction with clearway markings. Must conform to DfT drawing no. 974 for bus stops or 975 for bus stands.
Wing Bracket (Case Fitting) A metal bracket securing two or more timetable cases to a bus stop post.
Visible Height/Width The height/width within a timetable case or bus stop flag where graphics remain visible. Often smaller than the total height of the case.
Our jargon-busting glossaries are a go-to resource for anyone dealing with public transport infrastructure. This one focusses on Bus Stop Infrastructure products and treatments. Whether you’re selecting the right RAL colour, designing route tiles, or securing a foundation socket, this guide helps bridge the gap between technical jargon and practical application.
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