As mentioned in our previous article, railroad spikes are typically made from carbon steel or high carbon steel. The first step in creating a railroad spike is selecting the appropriate raw material. Process of how railroad spikes are created Once the spike is forged, it is quenched in water or oil to harden the steel and increase its strength. The manufacturing process involves heating the steel to a high temperature and then forging it into the desired shape. Additionally, carbon steel and high carbon steel are relatively inexpensive, making them a cost-effective choice for railroad construction and maintenance.Ĭarbon steel and high carbon steel are also easy to manufacture and work with, making them a popular choice for railroad spikes.

Why is carbon steel or high carbon steel used for railroad spikes?Ĭarbon steel and high carbon steel are used for railroad spikes because they are strong and durable enough to withstand the weight of trains and the stresses of frequent use. Carbon steel and high carbon steel are the most cost-effective options and offer excellent strength and durability, while stainless steel is a more expensive option that offers superior corrosion resistance. While other materials may be used for railroad spikes, these three are the most common materials. MaterialĬontains carbon as the primary alloying element strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive easy to manufacture and work with.Ĭontains more carbon than regular carbon steel even stronger and more durable than carbon steel also relatively inexpensive and easy to manufacture.Ĭorrosion-resistant and requires less maintenance than carbon steel or high carbon steel more expensive than carbon steel or high carbon steel. However, carbon steel and high carbon steel remain the most common materials for railroad spikes due to their strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. In addition to carbon steel and high carbon steel, some railroad spikes are made from other materials, such as stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant and requires less maintenance. It is even stronger and more durable, making it an excellent choice for railroad spikes. High carbon steel is a type of carbon steel that contains more carbon than regular carbon steel.

It is often used in the construction industry because it is strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Carbon steel is a type of steel that contains carbon as the primary alloying element. Railroad spikes are typically made from carbon steel or high carbon steel. What type of metal are railroad spikes made from?

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