Composite Rail Tie

AppearanceDark gray to black
Size 7"x9"x9' or 7"x9"x8'6"
(other sizes by special order)
Weight 250 to 270 lbs.
Surface hardness 7,000 lbs.
Density 72 lbs. Per cubic foot
Thermal expansion 0.0075% per ºf
Modulus of rupture Greater than 2,700 psi
Modulus of elasticity Greater than 250,000 psi
Compressive moe 39,000 psi
Rail seat compression 2,400 psi
Flammability No combustion after 20 seconds of impinging flame;
Self extinguished after 120 seconds of impinging flame
Spike insertion 7,000 lbs.
Spike lateral resistance 2,600 lbs.
Spike withdrawal 3,300 lbs. (cut spike)(avg)
Screw spike withdrawal 8,000 lbs.
Resistivity 500+ mega-ohms @ 500 volts


Better system economics
Significantly reduced maintenance, longer tie life, minimum disposal costs and reduced rail down time all contribute to the economic benefits.
Improved track reliability
Composite ties have been shown to improve track performance over time. They are not susceptible to plate cutting or decay, and they hold spikes and screws very well, so they maintain gauge on both straight and curved track over millions of gross tons of load, increasing track reliability and safety.
Environmental benefits
Composite ties are 85% recycled material. Each mile of track uses approximately 2 million plastic bottles, 9 million plastic bags and 10,000 scrapped vehicle tires instead of consuming over 750 trees.