How to select the correct surface treatment method for rail spikes?

Selecting the correct surface treatment for rail spikes involves considering corrosion resistance, cost, and application environment. For a low-cost option, plain (oiled) or blackening + oiling can be used for temporary protection. For better corrosion resistance, electro-galvanizing is a good mid-range option, while hot-dip galvanizing offers superior protection for long-term use, though it is more expensive. For a more specialized solution, coatings like Dacromet provide excellent corrosion resistance without hydrogen embrittlement, but they are costlier.

Treatment options by cost and corrosion resistance

• Plain (Oiled): The cheapest option, providing only temporary protection against corrosion.

• Blackening + Oiling: A popular and low-cost method often used for industrial fasteners.

• Electro-galvanizing: A cost-effective plating method with good corrosion resistance.

• Dacromet Coating: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and high-temperature stability, but is more expensive than galvanizing.

• Hot-dip galvanizing (HDG): Provides excellent corrosion resistance for long-term use, but is more expensive than electro-galvanizing.

Factors to consider

• Cost: The budget for the project will determine the most suitable treatment. Plain oiling is the cheapest, while specialized coatings are the most expensive.

• Environmental conditions: Consider the environment where the spikes will be used. Harsh or corrosive conditions may require more robust protection like hot-dip galvanizing or Dacromet coating.

• Service life: For long-term applications, treatments that offer superior corrosion protection like hot-dip galvanizing are recommended over basic oiling.

• Specific application: Specialized requirements, such as resistance to hydrogen embrittlement or high temperatures, might make other treatments more appropriate.

Screw spike

When first introduced in 1860 in France, then the screw spike shortly became the common railway material in continental Europe. The screw spike, also called rail screw, is a large screw used to fasten any two railway tracks. Besides, it is also used to fix tie plates or fix into a hole bored in the sleeper. Owing to the greater fixing power and the feature that can be combined with spring washers, the cost of manufacture of the screw spike is higher than the rail spike. In the common life, the railroad screw spikes are mainly used in some heavy rail applications as well as in some peat works, garden festivals, leisure parks and so on.

Dog Spikes

Dog spike is another important component of railroad spikes. Because of the two lugs on either side, the dog spike looks just like the dog's head. Just like the screw spikes, the dog spikes have the similar dimensions. But as to the head, it has a pointed penetrating head.

If you have special requirements for dimensions or higher strength materials, please contact us for special custom production.