What is the Mass Per Unit Length of DIN 5901 S24 Rail?
The theoretical mass per unit length of DIN 5901 S24 rail is approximately 24.4 kg/m (16.4 lb/yd). The S24 profile has a rail height of 115 mm, base width of 90 mm, and head width of 53 mm, and is commonly used in underground mining haulage, tunneling, industrial transfer systems, and other light-duty track applications.
![]()
For procurement and track design, the 24.4 kg/m value is the theoretical linear mass used to calculate rail weight, transportation requirements, and material quantities. Actual delivered weight may vary slightly due to manufacturing tolerances and specified rail length.
Send Your S24 Rail Requirements
GNEE RAIL supplies DIN 5901 S24 rail with a theoretical mass of 24.4 kg/m, supported by technical documentation and inspection records for procurement and engineering verification.
Load Capacity & Working Conditions of DIN 5901 S24 Rail
The suitability of DIN 5901 S24 rail (24.4 kg/m) depends on the relationship between rail section properties and the actual wheel load, axle load, support spacing, operating speed, and track structure. S24 is generally considered for light-duty mining, tunneling, industrial transfer carts, and narrow-gauge track systems.
S24 Rail Load Selection
There is no single maximum axle-load rating applicable to every S24 rail installation. The permissible load should be verified according to the complete track design, including:
- Wheel and axle load
- Sleeper or support spacing
- Rail steel grade
- Operating speed and dynamic impact
- Curve radius and lateral forces
- Track foundation and fastening system

For preliminary project selection, S24 is generally more appropriate for light-duty and low-speed track systems. Where wheel loads or axle loads increase significantly, a heavier rail profile such as S30 or a crane/heavy rail profile should be evaluated.
When Should You Consider a Heavier Rail?
| Application Condition | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|
| Light mine cars, material carts, low-speed industrial transport | S24 may be suitable, subject to track design |
| Higher axle loads or longer sleeper spacing | Evaluate S30 or a heavier profile |
| High-frequency heavy-duty industrial transport | Consider a heavier rail section |
| Crane systems with high wheel loads | Evaluate DIN 536 crane rails or other suitable heavy profiles |
The final rail selection should be based on engineering calculations rather than rail weight alone. GNEE RAIL can provide S24 rail specifications and technical data for project evaluation, while the final permissible wheel or axle load should be confirmed by the project engineer based on the complete track system.
Need Help Selecting the Right Rail Profile? → Send Your Project Details
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – S24 Rail
Q1: Can DIN 5901 S24 rail directly replace Chinese GB 24 kg/m rail?
A: No. Although their theoretical masses are similar, their profile dimensions and connection geometry are different. DIN 5901 S24 has a 115 mm height, 90 mm base width, and 53 mm head width, while GB 24 kg/m rail uses a different profile. Their fishplates and fastening components should therefore not be assumed to be interchangeable.
Q2: What is the maximum wheel load of S24 rail?
A: There is no single maximum wheel-load value for S24 rail. The permissible wheel and axle loads should be determined from the rail steel grade, sleeper spacing, support conditions, wheel diameter, operating speed, curve radius, and complete track design.
Q3: What is the MOQ and lead time for S24 rail?
A: MOQ and lead time depend on the required quantity, rail length, steel grade, processing requirements, and production schedule. Standard products may have shorter delivery times, while customized cutting, drilling, bending, or large-volume orders require additional production time. GNEE RAIL can confirm the available supply schedule based on the project requirements.






