Role of the Sleeper Screw Spike in Track
The railway sleeper screw spike is a commonly used fastener in railway track systems, designed to securely fix rails to wooden or concrete sleepers and ensure long-term track stability. The spike consists of a threaded shank with a square or rectangular head suitable for standard wrench installation. The threaded portion engages tightly with the sleeper, effectively absorbing vibrations and impacts from train operations and preventing track displacement.
Available Series and Types
GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAYL produces and sells various rail screw spikes for wooden or concrete sleepers. Product specifications include the Ss1, Ss2, Ss5, Ss6, Ss7, Ss8, Ss16, Ss17, Ss23, Ss24, Ss25, Ss27, Ss28, Ss35, Ss36, and Ss76 series, as well as the V20, V23, and V26 screw spikes and various trapezoidal bolts. Common combinations for concrete sleeper fastening include Ss8-140, Ss8-150, Ss8-160, Ss23-160, Ss25-165, and Ss35-161, together with V20-135, V23-115, V23-135, V23-155, V23-215, and V26-115.
Materials and Grades
The grades of screw spikes are 4.6, 4.8, 5.6, 5.8, 6.8, 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9. Typical materials are Q235 carbon steel, 35# steel, 45# steel, and 40Cr alloy steel. Grade 4.6 is commonly produced from Q235, grade 5.6 from 35# steel, grade 8.8 from 45# steel after heat treatment, and higher grades from alloy steel such as 40Cr. The material is selected according to the strength class required by the track specification.
Mechanical Properties
The mechanical properties follow the grade system of ISO 898-1. Tensile strength is at least 400 MPa for grade 4.6, 500 MPa for grade 5.6, 800 MPa for grade 8.8, and 1000 MPa for grade 10.9. Yield strength is at least 240 MPa, 300 MPa, 640 MPa, and 900 MPa for the same grades. Minimum elongation decreases from 22 percent for grade 4.6 to 9 percent for grade 10.9, and all grades pass a 90 degree cold bending test without cracking.
Black Oxide Finish and Its Benefits
The black oxide coating provides rust protection and adapts to high-humidity and industrial environments, enhancing corrosion resistance and durability. Compared with plain oiled surfaces, the black finish gives a uniform appearance and a thin protective layer, and it can be combined with oil or wax for additional protection. Other available surfaces include zinc plating, hot-dip galvanizing, Dacromet, and sherardizing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which series of sleeper screws are available? The Ss1 to Ss76 family and the V20, V23, V26 screw spikes cover most wooden and concrete sleeper applications.
What strength grades are offered? Grades 4.6, 4.8, 5.6, 5.8, 6.8, 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9 are available for different load requirements.
What is the benefit of the black oxide finish? It provides rust protection, a uniform appearance, and good performance in high-humidity and industrial environments.
Which standards govern these spikes? ISO 898-1, UIC864-1, and NF F500-50 are the reference standards for material and mechanical requirements.
Can the spikes be made to custom drawings? Yes, custom dimensions and thread designs can be manufactured according to customer drawings and samples.
