Railroad ties, also known as sleepers, are an essential component of any railway infrastructure. These rectangular pieces of wood or concrete support the weight of the rails and ensure a sturdy and stable track surface.
One important factor to consider when working with railroad ties is their weight. The weight of a railroad tie can vary depending on the material it is made from, its size, and other factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of railroad ties and how much they weigh.
Wooden Railroad Ties
Wooden railroad ties, also known as timber sleepers, have been the most common type of railroad tie used in North America for many years. These ties are typically made from hardwoods such as oak or pine and are treated with chemicals to prevent decay and pest infestations.
The weight of a wooden railroad tie can vary depending on its size and the type of wood used. A standard-size hardwood tie is typically around 8 feet long, 9 inches wide, and 7 inches thick. An untreated hardwood tie can weigh between 200-250 pounds, while a treated tie can weigh between 350-400 pounds.
Concrete Railroad Ties
Concrete railroad ties have become more popular in recent decades due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. These ties are made from pre-stressed concrete and are designed to last up to 50 years or more.
The weight of a concrete railroad tie is significantly greater than that of a wooden tie. A standard-sized concrete tie measures approximately 8 feet long, 10 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. A single concrete tie can weigh anywhere from 500-600 pounds.
Steel Railroad Ties
Steel railroad ties, also known as base plates or sole plates, are not typically used as a replacement for traditional wooden or concrete ties. Instead, these ties are used in conjunction with them to secure the rails to the underlying structure.
The weight of a steel railroad tie is much lower than that of a wooden or concrete tie, but it still plays an important role in the overall weight of the track system. A standard-sized steel tie measures approximately 16 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 3/4 inches thick. A single steel tie can weigh between 30-40 pounds.
Conclusion
The weight of a railroad tie varies depending on its material, size, and other factors. Wooden railroad ties are the most common type of tie used in North America and typically weigh between 200-400 pounds. Concrete ties are becoming more popular due to their durability and can weigh between 500-600 pounds. Steel ties are not used as a replacement for traditional ties but can weigh between 30-40 pounds and play an important role in securing the rails. Understanding the weight of railroad ties is necessary for anyone involved in building or maintaining railway infrastructure.