What is the difference between UIC54 and UIC60?

Dec 26, 2025 Leave a message

What is the difference between UIC54 and UIC60?

 

UIC54 and UIC60 are International Union of Railways (UIC) standard rail profiles, differing mainly in size, weight, and application, with UIC60 being heavier and larger (approx. 60 kg/m, ~60mm height) than UIC54 (approx. 54 kg/m, ~54mm height), making UIC60 better suited for high-speed and heavy-haul traffic, while UIC54 serves general use, with UIC60 having a wider base and head for greater stability and wear resistance.

 

steel rail


Key Differences

 

 

  • Weight: UIC60 weighs around 60 kg/m, while UIC54 weighs about 54 kg/m.

 

  • Dimensions: UIC60 has a taller profile (~60mm) and wider head/base compared to UIC54 (~54mm height).

 

  • Application: UIC60's robust design suits heavy-duty freight and high-speed lines, while UIC54 is common for standard/medium-load tracks.

 

  • Stability & Wear: The wider foot and thicker head of the UIC60 provide better stability and longer service life under heavier loads.

 

Specifications Comparison

 

Feature UIC54 (54E1) UIC60 (60E1)
Unit Weight ~54.8 kg/m ~60.2 kg/m
Height ~54 mm ~60 mm
Head Width ~159 mm (for 54E1) ~172 mm (for 60E1)
Base Width ~140 mm (for 54E1) ~144.3 mm (for 60E1)
Primary Use General railway systems High-speed, heavy-load traffic

 

UIC54 Rail

 

The UIC54 rail (also known as 54E1, UIC 54, or 54 kg/m rail) is a standard European rail profile designed under EN 13674-1 and UIC 860 specifications. Weighing 54.77 kg/m, it offers an optimal balance between durability and track stability, making it a preferred choice for mainline railway systems, urban transit lines, and heavy-haul freight routes.

 

Its precisely engineered profile ensures reliable performance under axle loads of 20–25 t, while its compatibility with various fastening systems enables seamless integration into both new builds and track renewal projects.

track rail

UIC54 Rail Specifications

 

Height: 159 mm Base Width: 140 mm
Head Width: 70 mm Web Thickness: 16 mm
Length: 12m-25m(customization) Material: 900A/1100
Weight: 54.43kg/m Standard: EN13674-1, UIC860

 

Need specific length or steel grade for your track system? Contact us for tailored production options.

 

Chemical composition and properties of uic 54 rail steel grades

 

heavy rail

 

U.I.C.60 Rail Profile

 

steel rail

UIC 60 rail, also called 60E1 rail.It is a standard gauge rail, designed for use on railroad tracks with a standard gauge of 1435mm, etc. It conforms to the UIC860 or EN 13674-1 standards and weighs 60.21 kg/m. Its dimensions include:

 

Head width: 74.3 mm
Height: 172 mm
Bottom width: 150 mm
Web thickness: 16.5 mm


The area of the section is 7671 mm², with a neutral axis to the base of 80.9 mm. UIC 60 is known for high load capacity, stability, and compatibility, making it ideal for electrified railways and industrial lines.

 

Contact GNEE RAIL today to receive your UIC 60 rails at competitive prices, with guaranteed fast delivery. Whether for electrified railways or industrial applications, our high-quality rails are available in stock and ready for quick dispatch.

 

Since 2008, GNEE RAIL has been supplying steel rails of different grades for more than 18 years, steel rails from GNEE is highly recommened in China and abroad.Wtih cutting edge equipment, GNEE produces high quality steel rails that meet with requirements of most countries. Standard rail, head hardened rail, heavy rail,light rail,crane rail and other types are all available here, as one of the China main rail supplier, GNEE RAIL has been working on supplying economical green railway products all over the world.

 

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