How to select the appropriate rail spike for your engineering project?
To select the right rail spike, consider the rail and tie dimensions, the required holding power, and the installation method. Measure the components to ensure a good fit, determine if the project requires a high holding force (favors screw spikes) or simpler gauge retention (favors cut spikes), and match the spike type (e.g., cut or screw) to your available tools and installation method.
Key factors for selection
Dimensions and material:
- Measure the dimensions of the rail base and the tie (wood or concrete) to determine the appropriate spike length and diameter.
- Use the correct spike for the tie material; for example, cut spikes are standard for wood ties, while screw spikes may be better for concrete and require pre-drilled holes.
Holding power:
- Screw spikes offer greater initial holding power and are suitable for high-stress applications, though they are more expensive and require more time and equipment to install.
- Cut spikes (like dog spikes) are traditional and excellent for holding rails to gauge and preventing rollover, especially on straight track.
Installation method:
- Cut spikes are driven into place with a hammer, making them simpler to install if your project requires quick and easy application.
- Screw spikes must be drilled and screwed into the tie, requiring specialized equipment.
Project and environmental requirements:
- Consider project-specific needs, such as the load on the track or the environment.
- For enhanced durability, look for spikes with surface treatments like hot-dip galvanizing to prevent corrosion.
Standards and quality:
- Ensure the spikes comply with relevant national and international standards, such as EN 13146 and EN 13481.
- Choose a reliable manufacturer that provides high-quality products and can offer custom solutions if needed.
Products Description
Screw spike
The screw spike is usually made of steel No. 3. Because the surface of the nail rod is threaded, it is called a screw spike. Its pull-out resistance is 0.5 to 1.0 times larger than that of ordinary railroad spike, but the thrust resistance is 50% less. Due to the inconvenience of disassembly and assembly, it is difficult to adjust the gauge distance, and it is generally applied to the railway switch.
Dog Spike
The rail dog spike is put into use in many applications from coal and gold mines to sugar plantations, leisure parks, as well as in some heavy rail applications. GNEE rail spike or dog spikes are manufactured in accordance with a series of international standards such as GB, AREMA or ASTM, BS, UIC, material using either carbon or stainless steel.
GNEE RAIL offers different kinds of railway fasteners to meet client's requirements, such as Elastic Rail Clip and Clamp, Rail Screw Spike, Plastic Dowel, High Tensile Track Bolt with Nut, Rail Base(Tie) Plate, Rail Fish Plate, Railway Shoulder(Insert), Fish Bolt, Railroad Rubber and EVA Pad, etc. Samples and drawings provided by customer, we will manufacture qualified products accordingly.
