Why are dog spikes used in wooden sleepers?

Dog spikes are used in wooden sleepers to secure railway tracks by fastening the T-shaped rails to the wooden ties. They maintain the correct gauge (distance between rails), prevent lateral and longitudinal movement, and ensure the stability and safety of the track, especially under the stress of passing trains.

How dog spikes work?

• Fastening the rail: The underside of the dog spike's head is sloped to fit the top of the rail's base, creating a tight fit.

• Preventing movement: They hold the rail in place, preventing it from shifting sideways (lateral movement) and moving along the track (longitudinal movement).

• Ensuring alignment: By keeping the rails in the correct position, dog spikes ensure the track maintains a consistent and safe gauge.

• Creating a stable foundation: The spikes penetrate the wooden sleepers, creating a secure anchor for the rails and preventing track slippage.

Key characteristics

• Shape: They have a pointed end for driving into the wood and a square shank.

• Head: The head has an L-shape with two lugs that make it look like a dog's head, which is how it got its name and helps in removal.

• Material: They are typically made of high-quality carbon or alloy steel to withstand railway conditions.

The common track spikes are the 5/8"*6" and the 9/16"*5-1/2" for smaller rail sections, and they are usually secured in either 200 lb. kegs or 50 lb. kegs.

Steel Material Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties:

GNEE RAILWAY RAILWAYL can supply railroad spike with customization, as a professional railway fastener manufacturer, we also provide steel rail, rail joint bar, rail clip, rail pad, rail bolt and other part of railway fastening system.

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