What is the standard A55 rail weight per meter?
The standard A55 crane rail, manufactured according to the DIN 536 P1:1991 standard, has a nominal weight of 31.8 kg/m. It is designed for light-to-medium duty, featuring a 55 mm head width, 65 mm height, and a 150 mm base width.
Weight advantage of DIN 536 A55 rail
The weight of the DIN 536 A55 profile is one of its most defining characteristics, especially when compared to traditional railway tracks. At approximately 31.8kg per meter, its "weight advantage" is found in its specific density and distribution of mass rather than just being "light."
High Mass-to-Height Ratio
The A55 is exceptionally heavy for its height. While it is only 65 mm tall, it weighs nearly as much as some light railway rails that are twice as tall.
- The Advantage: This concentrated mass creates a low center of gravity. For crane applications, this weight ensures the rail stays seated under the immense "uplift" or "skewing" forces that occur when a crane trolley starts or stops abruptly.
Structural Efficiency in Support Design
Because the A55 is designed to be continuously supported (usually on a steel beam or concrete plinth), its weight is distributed across the entire foundation.
- Reduced Girder Stress: Compared to heavier crane profiles (like the A100 or A120), the 31.8 kg/m of the A55 allows for the design of lighter supporting steelwork. This can significantly lower the overall cost of a factory or warehouse structure while still providing the necessary hardness for heavy wheel loads.
Comparison of Weight vs. Capacity
The A55 strikes a "sweet spot" for medium-duty industrial cranes.
| Rail Profile | Weight (Approx.) | Primary Use |
| S18 (Light Rail) | 18.3kg/m | Mining/Small carts; lacks stability for cranes. |
| A55 (Crane Rail) | 31.8 kg/m | Optimized for medium gantry/overhead cranes. |
| 54E1 (Railway) | 54.8 kg/m | Excessive weight and height for most indoor cranes. |
What is the maximum load capacity of the DIN 536 A55 rail with a unit weight of 31.8 kg/m?
The DIN 536 A55 crane rail, which has a unit weight of 31.8 kg/m, is typically designed for medium-load bridge and gantry crane systems. While the exact capacity depends on factors like wheel spacing and support intervals, the recommended maximum wheel load is commonly cited as up to 25 tonnes.
Key Technical Data for A55 Rail
- Standard: DIN 536 P1:1991
- Dimensions: 65 mm (Height) × 150 mm (Base) × 55 mm (Head)
- Common Materials: 50Mn, 900A, or U71Mn (High-manganese steel)
- Tensile Strength: ≥ 690 N/mm²
| Size | Dimension(mm) | Weight | Material | Length | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head(mm) | Height(mm) | Bottom(mm) | Web(mm) | ||||
| A 55 | 55 | 65 | 150 | 31 | 31.8 | 900A | 10-12 |
Load & Application Characteristics
- Usage: Ideal for small gantry cranes, workshop lifting tracks, and automated warehouses.
- Capacity Advantage: Offers higher load capacity than the A45 profile, designed for increased bending resistance and stability.
- Operating Speed: Recommended for low to medium-speed operations (≤ 120 m/min).
FAQ
- Does the weight of A55 rail vary between S700 and S900Q grades?
The theoretical A55 rail weight per meter remains approximately 31.8 kg/m regardless of the grade. While the A55 Crane Rail Material Grade changes the chemical composition and strength properties, the density of the steel remains virtually constant, meaning the weight is determined by the A55 rail dimensions.
- Is the weight of A55 rail sufficient for a 50-ton crane?
The suitability depends on the wheel load and the spacing of the baseplates/steel soleplates. The A55 rail profile is typically rated for wheel loads up to 120 kN. We recommend consulting with our technical team to match the Specifications of A55Rail to your crane's specific requirements.
- Why is the A55 weight higher than some taller railway rails?
The A55 rail dimensions feature a very wide base (150 mm) and thick web (31 mm). This "A" type geometry prioritizes stability and mass near the base, resulting in a higher weight-to-height ratio compared to standard T-shaped rails, which are designed for different mechanical stresses.
- How does the rail weight affect the choice of Alumothermic Welding kits for Rails?
The weight and cross-sectional area of the A55 rail profile determine the amount of portion (welding powder) needed for each joint. Using the correct Alumothermic Welding kits for Rails ensures that the weld consumes the correct amount of steel to create a bond that is as strong as the A55 rail material itself.
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GNEE RAIL provides comprehensive support to help you verify all Specifications of A55Rail, from the exact A55 rail weight per meter to the chemical properties of the A55 rail material. Whether you are replacing an existing track or designing a new DIN536 A55 Rail System, our team offers the technical expertise to ensure your project's safety and performance.
Contact us to discuss your project requirements and receive a detailed quote. Our engineers can provide calculated weight data and material certificates for your A55 Crane Rail needs, ensuring your project is supported by the highest quality manufacturing.