1. What is the primary function of railway spikes?
Railway spikes are fasteners used to secure rails to wooden sleepers (ties). They prevent lateral and longitudinal movement of the rail while allowing for thermal expansion. Typically made of high-carbon steel, spikes are driven into pre-drilled holes in sleepers at an angle to maximize grip. Proper spike alignment ensures consistent gauge width and track stability.
2. What are the common types of railway spikes?
Dog spikes: Most widely used, with a chisel-shaped point for wooden sleepers.
Screw spikes: Threaded design for concrete sleepers, offering higher pull-out resistance.
Elastic spikes: Used with spring clips in modern fastening systems.
Hook spikes: Feature a bent head for temporary track work.
3. How are spikes installed correctly?
Spikes are driven at a 15–20° angle toward the rail using a spike maul or hydraulic spike driver. Installation steps:
Align spike with pre-marked sleeper holes.
Drive until the head is flush with the sleeper surface.
Avoid over-driving to prevent wood splitting.
Final torque: 80–100 N·m for screw spikes.
4. Why do spikes loosen over time?
Loosening occurs due to:
Sleeper wood shrinkage (seasonal changes).
Dynamic train loads causing gradual uplift.
Corrosion reducing friction.
Poor initial installation (incorrect angle/depth).
Regular re-driving is required every 2–3 years.
5. How is spike corrosion prevented?
Galvanization: Zinc coating extends lifespan by 5–10 years.
Epoxy coatings: Used in coastal/high-humidity areas.
Regular inspections: Replace spikes showing >20% rust coverage.
Anti-corrosion grease: Applied during maintenance.