1. Shape and Classification
A dog spike (cut spike) is functionally a large nail with a square horizontal section, a pointed penetrating tip and a flattened head with a dog-lug projection - hence its name.
A screw spike has a threaded shank and a round, square or collar head. Dog spikes are simple in shape; screw spikes come in many thread forms (single-start, double-start, spiral) and head styles.
2. Sleeper Compatibility
- Dog spike: used only with timber sleepers - driven directly into the wood.
- Screw spike: used with concrete sleepers - screwed into an embedded plastic sleeve, nylon dowel or pre-formed hole, achieving a mechanical lock independent of the concrete itself.
As concrete sleepers become the standard in new railway construction, screw spikes are increasingly specified, and demand continues to grow.
3. Installation Method
Dog spike: traditionally hammer-driven by hand; modern lines use mechanical spike drivers. Installation is fast but the final clamping force is not precisely controlled.
Screw spike: installed with a torque-controlled driver or wrench; the clamping force can be set precisely and re-tensioned during maintenance.
4. Anchoring (Fastening) Power
The screw spike's thread engages the sleeve/dowel over a long length, giving a pull-out resistance typically more than double that of a dog spike (industry-typical values; exact figures depend on timber condition, sleeve type and thread design).
Higher anchoring power effectively prevents gauge deviation under heavy and high-speed traffic.
Dog-spike holding depends on the timber: wet, split or rotting sleepers lose grip quickly and the spike must be re-driven or replaced.
Screw spikes are usually used with a plastic sleeve, which also electrically insulates the fastening where required.
5. Cost
The manufacturing cost of a screw spike is higher than that of a dog spike because threading is an additional, more complex process step. However, on concrete-sleeper lines the screw spike is the only practical direct fastening option, and its longer service life offsets the higher first cost.
Typical Sizes and Materials
| Type | Typical Dimensions | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Dog spike | 16×16×165 mm, 5/8"×6", etc. | Q235, 45# (coated) |
| Screw spike | M22-M24 × 130-175 mm (thread length varies) | 45#, 40Cr (quenched & tempered), stainless for corrosive sites |
Selection Guidance
- Timber-sleeper lines, low-medium speed: dog spikes.
- Concrete-sleeper lines: screw spikes with sleeves; alloy-steel grades for high-speed and heavy-haul.
- Corrosive environments: stainless screw spikes or coated options.
- Specify torque requirements in maintenance procedures; re-check tension on a schedule.
Get a Quote for Rail Spikes
In railway track construction, the choice between dog spikes and screw spikes depends on the sleeper type, required holding power, installation method, and project budget. GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAYL supplies both types with different sizes, materials, and specifications for various track fastening applications.
