A railway spike or a railroad spike is a large nail with an offset head that can hold rails and baseplate firmly to the tie (sleeper). It is a small component of the railway fastening system. On track material market, railway spikes have various types according to the structure and way of installation. The dog spikes and the screw spikes are two typical types. As to the making process, two ways are adopted. One is producing railway spikes by manual work. The other is a series of process such as forging, heat treatment and threading through machines.

Dog spike

Dog spike is also called cut spike, as its name, dog spike has an L-shaped head which looks like a dog's head and a square shank whose head is sloped to fit the top surface of the rail base. In general, spikes with various sizes are provided to meet the different requirements of penetrating length of spikes. For smaller rail sections, the 5/8"*6" and the 9/16"*5-1/2" are the most two common types of dog spikes, and they are usually packaged in either 200 lb. kegs or 50 lb. kegs.

Maintenance of Rail spike

The spike plays a very important role in the rail fastening system, so railroad workers should check and maintain it regularly. After long time's using, it need to be replaced.

When to replace the rail spike?

The spike is in natural exposure for a long time.

The spike is often grinded by the vehicle and makes the spike damaged.

When the shape is in deformation.

When the spike has been corroded.

The rail spike should be placed on above circumstances. Since the spike is related to the safety of the whole track and train, the replace method is very important. It can be replaced with the help of professional railroad spike puller, which can pull out the useless or harmful spike quickly, accurately and clearly.