3 Types Of Dog Spikes

Jul 31, 2025 Leave a message

Dog spikes come in various types, each with distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. They are mainly categorized into three types: cut spikes, forged spikes, and spiral spikes.

 

Specification Material Surface Standard
5/8*6 '' A3,Q235, 45#,55#, etc According to customer needs. According to customer's drawings or samples.
9/16*5-1/2 ''
3/8''*3-1/2 ''
1/2*3-1/2
Other kinds


Cut Spikes


Cut spikes are the most traditional type of dog spikes in the railway industry. They are made by cutting steel or iron bars and shaping them to have square shanks and tapered tips. Typically driven into wooden sleepers, their square shape prevents rotation after installation.

 

Dog spikes


One of the advantages of cut spikes is ease of installation, as they can firmly grip wooden sleepers. They are also relatively low-cost compared to other dog spike types. However, cut spikes have drawbacks: they tend to loosen due to vibrations from passing trains and are prone to corrosion and rusting, which can reduce the strength of sleepers and track systems.


Forged Spikes


Forged spikes are manufactured by heating a piece of steel or iron to a red-hot state and then shaping it into the desired spike form. Compared to cut spikes, forged spikes are stronger and can be used with different types of sleepers, including concrete, steel, and wood. They feature tapered shanks, pointed tips, and heads-either square or round, depending on the application.

 

Forged Spikes


The primary advantages of forged spikes lie in their strength and durability, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. They are less likely to loosen or corrode, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. The main disadvantage is their relatively higher cost compared to cut spikes.


Screw Spikes


Screw Spikes are a type of dog spike with threaded shanks, designed to be screwed into pre-drilled holes in sleepers. Their heads can be square or round, and the ends are pointed for easy driving into sleepers. Usually made of high-strength carbon steel or alloy steel, spiral spikes are suitable for both wooden and concrete sleepers.

 

​​​​screw spike


A key advantage of spiral spikes is their ability to grip sleepers tightly, minimizing the risk of loosening or displacement. They are also relatively easy to install-requiring only a drill to create holes in sleepers. Additionally, spiral spikes offer corrosion and rust resistance, making them well-suited for harsh environments. However, a drawback is that they are difficult to remove after installation, requiring specialized equipment and tools.

 

GNEE RAIL specializes in the production of a full range of railway fasteners, including spring clip systems (Type I/II/e spring clips, W spring clips, SKL fasteners), bolt assemblies (sleeper square head bolts, T-head bolts, anchor screw spikes), insulation components (rubber pads, microporous rubber pads, nylon gauge blocks), anti-loosening systems (self-locking nuts, double anti-loosening washers, spring washers), embedded casings (nylon casings, cast iron casings), iron shims (standard/composite), gauge plates (cast iron/nylon plate bases), press washers, rail underlayment, and various spring and flat washers. If you require more detailed product information, please contact us.