How to slow down the rusting of rail spikes?

Nov 19, 2025 Leave a message

How to slow down the rusting of rail spikes?

 

To slow the rusting of rail spikes, use protective coatings like galvanization or painting, apply specialized anti-corrosion grease, or choose alloy spikes made with rust-resistant materials. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning off dirt and grime, is also crucial for long-term protection.

 

Protective coatings

 

  • Galvanization: A process of coating the spikes with a protective layer of zinc, which creates a barrier against rust.

 

  • Painting: Apply rust-resistant or corrosion-inhibiting paint to the surface. Reapply the coating as needed to maintain a protective barrier.

 

  • Powder coating: This involves applying a dry powder that is then heated to form a thin, hard, and durable film on the spike's surface.

 

  • Epoxy coating: A plastic-like coating can be applied to protect against moisture.

 

rail fasteners


Lubricants and greases

 

  • Anti-corrosion grease: Apply a specialized, long-life anti-corrosion grease that is formulated to resist oxidation, water, and high temperatures.

 

Material selection

 

  • Alloy spikes: Opt for spikes made from alloy materials that are naturally more resistant to corrosion from the start.

 

rail fastening

 

Maintenance

 

  • Regular cleaning: Use brushes to remove dirt and grime, which can trap moisture and accelerate rusting. Wire brushes are good for heavy rust, while nylon or brass brushes can be used for lighter cleaning.

 

  • Regular checks: Routinely inspect spikes for signs of rust, especially in areas with less traffic or harsh weather conditions.

 

Technical requirements of screw spike

 

rail clip

  • The material of the screw spike is Q235-A steel.

 

  • The upper thread of the screw spike is M24, the basic size should meet the requirements of GB196, and the thread tolerance is made according to the 8g specified in GB197.

 

  • The lower thread of the screw spike is special M25.6×6-d24.0/25.6 thread, and the tooth height is 3.25-00.25mm.

 

  • The end of the screw spike is manufactured in accordance with the provisions of GB2.

 

  • The forged burst crack on the surface of the head of screw spike is not allowed to extend to the shaft.

 

  • The upper thread of the screw spike is not allowed to have the bumps and burrs that hinder the screw gauge from being screwed in. The double cusps and scratches are not allowed to be exist.

 

  • The lower thread of the screw spike should be neatly shaped, the thread is complete, and no cracks are allowed.

 

  • The surface of the screw spike is not allowed to have dents, burrs, flash, burns and scales that affect the use.

 

  • The screw spike should be subjected to the physical tensile test. When the load is 130kN, the screwl spike should not be broken.

 

the types of Ss Series Sleeper Screw Product Name Specification Material Surface Standard
1 Fishtail Bolt M8-M64 Q235,45#,55#,etc Zinc,Plain, Black Oil UIC,AREMA,JIS,GB or according to your requests.
2 Screw Spike Square Head Screw Spike M16-M22 *145-200
Hexagon Head Screw Spike
Other Types
    Type Specification Weight/kg Surface Standard
3 Sleeper Screw Ss 1/130 M22*130 0.451 Zinc,Plain, Black Oil UIC,AREMA,JIS,GB or according to your requests.
Ss 1/150 M22*150 0.478
Ss 2/180 M22*180 0.595
Ss 5/150 M24*150 0.545
Ss 6/130 M26*130 0.658
Ss 6/150 M26*150 0.702
Ss 6/170 M26*170 0.385
Ss 7/180 M24*180 0.636
Ss 8/140 M24*140 0.528
Ss 8/150 M24*150 0.548
Ss 8/160 M24*160 0.568
Ss 23/160 M23*160 0.645
Ss 24/165 M24*165 0.59
Ss 25/165 M25*165 0.625

 

GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAYL 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.

 

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