Dog spike

Dog spike also be named track spike, rail spike, dog nail, because the cover is big, looked like a dog. The big cover just for fix the bottom of rail track on wooden sleeper. Now most sleeper use concrete sleeper instead of wooden sleeper, so dog spike was instead by screw spike.

Dog spike

A dog spike, also known as a track spike or cut spike, is a vital fastener used in railway construction to secure rails to wooden sleepers or ties. Made of high-quality steel, dog spikes are designed to withstand the heavy loads and forces exerted on the rail.

These spikes feature a simple design, with a pointed shank and a head at one end. They are driven through a hole in the base of the rail into the wooden sleeper, and the head is hammered down onto the rail, firmly securing it in place. The slightly curved or bent shank helps prevent lateral movement of the rail, ensuring stability.

While traditional installation involved manual hammering, modern methods employ mechanized tools for efficiency. Aside from securing the rail, dog spikes help distribute the load of passing trains from the rail to the sleeper, maintaining track stability.

Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of dog spikes. Periodic replacement and tightening are necessary to uphold the stability and reliability of railway tracks. Overall, dog spikes play a critical role in providing a secure and stable connection between rails and sleepers, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of train systems.