The Benefits of Steel in Rail Construction

The objective for any rail construction project — whether a greenfield construction project or rehabilitation of an existing network — is to complete the project on time, on budget (or under) and with strict adherence to safety standards. Quality materials — namely steel products — are key in reaching those objectives.

"Steel offers substantial operational, financial and environmental benefits to the rail industry over other products," said Matt Violin, senior director of sales and marketing for NARSTCO, the industry's leading provider of steel ties and turnout sets.

COST SAVINGS

Steel components, specifically ties and turnouts, have the potential to greatly reduce costs over the lifecycle of the product. From reduction in ballast needed for installation to the 50+year life expectancy, steel products offer significant cost savings for the customer.

Steel ties are nested and bundled for shipment, taking up limited space and allowing for easy transportation to project sites via truck or rail car. Steel turnouts eliminate the need for tie plates, turnout plates, spikes, anchors and screws. The overall reduction of track components yields more efficient and safer work flows for crews.

Additionally, steel products reduce the wear of other track components, most notably switch points and frogs.

SAFETY

Steel ties provide sturdy, reliable support and can endure the rigors of everyday track use. Steel turnouts also maximize rail safety by holding gauge over the life of a turnout.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Steel ties and turnouts are environmentally friendly and eliminate the use of creosote, a chemical that's harmful to the environment and people. NARSTCO manufactures its ties from recycled steel, which means they are 100 percent recyclable at the end of their useful life.

All these benefits combined make steel ties and turnouts an invaluable asset to any track, from Class I railroads to short line systems and more.

EXPERTISE

Building upon its 25-year legacy in the rail industry, NARSTCO steel ties and turnout sets stand alone as the preferred choice for Class Is, short lines, transit agencies and industrial customers. The U.S.-made products are the safe, environmentally friendly and operationally smart choice. From our outstanding customer service to comprehensive field engineering services to our safe and efficient manufacturing processes, NARSTCO products are the industry leader.

To learn how steel ties can work for you and your network, contact Matt Violin at matt.violin@NARSTCO.com or 972-809-6955.