An 8 ft railroad tie typically weighs approximately 200 lbs. The exact weight can vary greatly, however, depending on the type of railroad tie and the material used to make it. Some railroad ties are made out of concrete, and can weigh up to 500 lbs, while wooden railroad ties usually weigh between 180 to 220 lbs.
The weight of a railroad tie is also affected by environmental factors, such as age and moisture levels. As the moisture content of the wood increases, its weight will also increase, making it heavier than normal.
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What is the size and weight of a railroad tie?
The average size of a railroad tie is approximately 8” x 8. 5” x 8. 5’, although the exact size can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and type of railroad tie. The average weight of the most common type of railroad tie, a timber tie, is about 75-100 pounds, but this number can also vary by type and manufacturer.
Rail ties are made from hardwoods like oak, Douglas fir and hard maple, which are all denser than typical softwoods like pine, while the weight of concrete and steel ties can be significantly heavier, at 220 and 300 pounds respectively, because of the added weight of the material.
How do you move heavy railroad ties?
Moving railroad ties can be tricky due to their size and weight. First, you should always wear safety gear such as gloves, steel-toe boots, and safety glasses. For single person movement, you should consider using a crowbar and heavy duty straps with a hoisting block and tackle.
By strategically inserting the crowbar in-between the ties, you can carefully pry them apart, and gently lower them onto a cart or a large hand truck. To move multiple railroad ties, you may need to enlist the help of an electric-powered hydraulic lift for larger ties, as well as extra people.
When transporting railroad ties, you should always plan your route and make sure the area is well lit and free from any potentials hazards. Tiedowns and tie-down straps in a secure, cross-hatched pattern should be used to make sure the ties remain secure.
Ultimately, moving railroad ties can be a complex task, so you should make sure you are properly prepared and have the proper equipment and help.
Why do railroad ties not rot?
Railroad ties are traditionally made of creosote-treated wood that is renowned for its waterproof qualities and resistance to rot. This is because the creosote treatment that the wood is subjected to seeps deep into the wood itself and acts to repel moisture, as well as prevent the growth of mold and fungus.
Furthermore, since railroad lines are normally built on a bed of gravel, the ties are also not doing directly in contact with soil, which minimizes the risk of them being damaged by soil moisture or decaying agents.
Moreover, some railroads are now starting to utilize plastic railroad ties that have been designed for the correct subterranean conditions to ensure that the ties remain durable and long lasting.
Are railroad ties oak?
No, railroad ties are not commonly made from oak, even though oak is a strong, durable wood. Traditionally, railroad ties were made from hardwoods, such as oak, but now they are usually made from recycled, treated softwoods like Douglas fir.
Softwoods are softer and easier to work with, and they are also more environmentally friendly. For example, wood treated with creosote, a hazardous material, is banned in many countries.
Can I cut railroad ties with a chainsaw?
Yes, you can cut railroad ties with a chainsaw. However, it requires some special considerations and safety measures. First and foremost, make sure you’re using a chainsaw that is specifically designed for tough cutting jobs, and make sure it is fitted with a suitable blade.
It’s best to keep your chainsaw well-maintained in excellent working order, especially when cutting hard materials like railroad ties.
In addition, ensure that the area around the railroad tie is free from debris, and the surface is level. It’s often easiest to lay the railroad tie flat on the ground and use a portable saw stand. This will help prevent kickbacks.
Wear protective gear and make sure the blade is sharp before you start cutting.
When cutting the railroad tie, try to make a shallow cut first to get through the outer layers, and then make a deeper cut as you go. It’s important to stay focused, keep your chainsaw steady, and use a gentle pressure to ensure you make a consistent cut.
If your chainsaw is having difficulty cutting then you may need to stop and sharpen the blade.
Once the railroad tie is cut, use a gloved hand to check the edges of the cut to ensure they’re smooth. If you notice any sharp edges then use a file to smooth them out.
Overall, cutting railroad ties with a chainsaw is possible but it requires taking the proper safety precautions and having the right tools.
What does the railroad do with old ties?
Railroad ties, also known as sleepers, are used to hold the rails in place in railroad tracks. When railroad ties become worn out and need to be replaced, the railroads will recycle them in a variety of ways.
Some of the most common uses for old railroad ties include creating retaining walls, landscaping, making furniture such as benches and tables, and creating pathways. Old railroad ties can also be chipped and used for mulch in garden beds, or made into playground borders.
Burning railroad ties can also be used to generate energy for the electrical grid, and some companies specialize in the recycling of railroad ties for energy production. Another use for old railroad ties is decommissioning them for use in areas where railroad tracks are no longer needed.
This involves a complex process of dismantling the ties, loading them into transporters, and taking them to a designated facility for further deconstruction.
Can you grab old railroad ties?
Yes, you can definitely grab old railroad ties. There are numerous shop or online retailers that specialize in used railroad ties and other salvaged railroad materials. It is also possible to find railroad ties being sold by private individuals and businesses.
You may even be able to find them for free if you keep your eyes open and ask around. You could check your local classifieds or even check to see if any nearby railroad companies are discarding old ties.
Additionally, many home and garden stores and landscapers carry used railroad ties and may be able to provide you with a good deal.
How long will a railroad tie last buried in the ground?
The life of a railroad tie buried in the ground depends on many factors, such as the material of the tie, the ground conditions, and how well in was originally treated. Generally, a railroad tie made out of untreated wood will last 5 to 7 years when buried in the ground, while a treated wood tie can last up to 15 years.
Other factors, such as ground temperature, soil type, drainage, and exposure to chemical contaminants, can also impact the lifespan of a railroad tie. If the ties are regularly treated with a preservative to protect them from rotting or insects, their lifespan can increase significantly.
In summary, a railroad tie buried in the ground can last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the quality of the ties and the ground conditions.
Do railroad ties decompose?
Yes, railroad ties do decompose over time. Railroad ties are traditionally made of wood, so they will naturally decompose like any other piece of wood when exposed to the elements. Railroad ties are frequently treated with a preservative to make them last longer and slow down the decomposition process.
Unfortunately, some of these preservatives can be harmful to the environment, as they can leach out into the surrounding soil and groundwater. With that said, it is still possible for railroad ties to eventually degrade and decompose.
This process can take anywhere from several years to several decades, depending on the type and amount of preservative used, the climate and weather, the wood’s stage of decay, and the levels of moisture present in the surrounding environment.
Do old railroad ties leach chemicals into the soil?
Yes, old railroad ties can leach chemicals into the soil. As the railroad ties are often treated with various hazardous preservatives such as creosote, pentachlorophenol and chromated copper arsenate in order to prolong their life and protect them from rot, UV damage and environmental decay, these chemicals can leach into the soil.
These chemicals can be harmful to the environment and can lead to groundwater contamination and the accumulation of toxins in soil, which can potentially cause harm to both plant and animal life. It is important to be aware of the potential for old railroad ties to leach chemicals into the soil and take appropriate measures to identify and manage potential risks.
This includes regular inspection and maintenance when replacing or disposing of old railroad ties as well as other steps to limit the potential for contamination.
