1. What tools are used for spike maintenance?
Spike puller: Removes damaged spikes.
Spike driver: Manual or pneumatic.
Torque wrench: For screw spikes.
Drift punch: Realigns spike holes.
2. What are the signs of spike failure?
Uplifted heads (>5mm above sleeper).
Visible cracks in the spike shank.
Gauge widening due to loosening.
Wood splintering around spike holes.
3. How many spikes are used per rail section?
Wooden sleepers: 4 spikes per joint, 2 spikes per intermediate sleeper.
Concrete sleepers: Screw spikes at 1,600–2,000 units per km.
Exact counts depend on rail weight and traffic density.
4. What is the lifespan of railway spikes?
Dog spikes: 10–15 years (wooden sleepers).
Screw spikes: 20–25 years (concrete sleepers).
Lifespan reduces in corrosive environments by 30–50%.
5. How do spikes differ for curved vs. straight tracks?
Curves: Higher spike density (every sleeper) and angled inward to resist lateral forces.
Straights: Standard spacing (every other sleeper).
Outer rail spikes on curves may be reinforced.