Rail spike

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In rail terminology, a spike is a large nail with an offset head that is used to secure rails or fishplates (or baseplates) to ties in the track. Spikes are driven into wooden ties either by hammering them with a spike hammer by hand, or in an automated fashion with a spiker.

Many railways use large wood screws, also called lag screws, to fasten the fishplates (or baseplates) to the railroad ties.

The presence of the letters HC (high carbon) on a spike's head indicates that the spike contains about 0.40% carbon.

The American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association sets the technical standards for the proper manufacture and use of this part by U.S. railroads.

Popular Culture

In the television show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the character Spike receives his nickname from his use of railroad spikes to torture his victims.

See also

• John Henry
• Golden spike
• Col. Robert L. Stevens

References

External links

• American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association

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Last updated on Tuesday May 27, 2008 at 22:54:31 PDT (GMT -0700)
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