115re 136re Railroad Rail Explained: Material Grades, Specifications, and Industrial Implementation

Types of 115RE and 136RE Railroad Rails

The 115RE and 136RE railroad rails are standardized rail sections widely used in North American rail infrastructure. These rails are designated by their weight per yard (115 lbs/yard and 136 lbs/yard), with RE standing for "Rail, Equivalent," indicating a specific cross-sectional profile optimized for strength, wear resistance, and compatibility with modern track systems. These rails are manufactured in various specialized types to meet the functional demands of different railway environments—from mainline tracks to industrial facilities and even equestrian sports.

Curve Rails

Curve rails are essential for constructing curved sections of railway tracks, allowing trains to navigate turns safely and smoothly. They are typically formed by cold-bending or heat-treating straight 115RE or 136RE rails to a specific radius based on track design requirements.

Key Features

• Engineered for precise curvature alignment
• Minimizes lateral stress on wheels and track
• Enhances passenger comfort and safety in turns
• Available as inner and outer rails for multi-radius curves

Considerations

• Requires careful installation to avoid misalignment
• Higher wear rate on the gauge side due to lateral forces
• Needs regular inspection for fatigue and deformation

Best for: Mountainous terrain, urban rail systems, and any track requiring directional changes

Switch Rails (Point Rails)

Switch rails, also known as point rails, are movable components within a railroad switch (or turnout) that guide trains from one track to another. These rails are precision-machined sections of 115RE or 136RE profiles, designed to pivot and align with either the main or diverging route.

Key Features

• Enable flexible routing in rail yards and junctions
• Designed for seamless wheel transition between tracks
• Manufactured to tight tolerances for reliable operation
• Often hardened for extended service life

Considerations

• Subject to high impact and wear at the tip
• Require regular maintenance and lubrication
• More complex to install and align than standard rails

Best for: Rail yards, station approaches, interlockings, and complex track layouts

Landing Rails (Dropper Rails)

Landing rails, commonly referred to as dropper rails, are specialized rails used in industrial environments such as warehouses, manufacturing plants, and maintenance depots. These rails support overhead crane systems and provide designated zones where suspended loads can be safely lowered and transferred.

Key Features

• Used in conjunction with gantry and bridge cranes
• Enable precise load positioning and transfer
• Often installed at loading docks or assembly stations
• Compatible with automated material handling systems

Considerations

• Must be securely anchored to support heavy loads
• Requires regular inspection for deflection or cracking
• Limited to low-speed, low-distance movement

Best for: Industrial facilities, freight terminals, and repair shops with overhead lifting needs

Steeplechase Rails

Steeplechase rails are not traditional railroad rails but are named for their structural similarity. Used in horse racing, these rails form the framework of jumping obstacles on steeplechase tracks. Constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials, they often mimic the profile of rail sections for strength and visibility.

Key Features

• Designed with top and bottom bars to guide horses
• Incorporate water jumps and brush obstacles
• Built to withstand repeated impact from hooves
• Highly visible for rider and horse safety

Considerations

• Not used in actual rail transport
• Requires frequent maintenance due to outdoor exposure
• Specialized application with limited versatility

Best for: Equestrian sports, horse racing tracks, and training facilities

Uplet Rails

Uplet rails are designed specifically for use with concrete sleepers (ties). These rails feature an integrated fastening system where raised "uplets" or lugs on the rail base allow direct attachment to the sleeper via clips or anchors, eliminating the need for traditional base plates and spikes.

Key Features

• Enhanced track stability and alignment retention
• Reduces long-term track settlement and shifting
• Speeds up installation on concrete-sleeper track beds
• Common in high-speed and heavy-haul rail lines

Considerations

• Higher initial cost due to specialized design
• Less flexible for track adjustments post-installation
• Limited availability compared to standard rails

Best for: High-speed rail, metro systems, and tracks with concrete ballastless beds

Rail Type	Primary Use	Material Compatibility	Installation Complexity	Durability
Curve Rails	Curved track sections	115RE, 136RE (bent)	Moderate	High (with maintenance)
Switch Rails	Track switching systems	Hardened 115RE/136RE	High	Moderate to High
Landing Rails	Industrial load transfer	Standard 115RE/136RE	Low to Moderate	High (when properly supported)
Steeplechase Rails	Horse racing obstacles	Wood, Steel, Composite	Low	Moderate (weather-dependent)
Uplet Rails	Concrete-sleeper tracks	Modified 115RE/136RE	Moderate	Very High

Expert Tip: When specifying 115RE or 136RE rails for curved or switch applications, always consult with rail engineers to ensure proper heat treatment, bending radius, and wear resistance. Using improperly treated rails in high-stress zones can lead to premature failure and safety hazards.

Features of 115RE and 136RE Railroad Rails

115RE and 136RE railroad rails are among the most widely used rail profiles in North American rail infrastructure, engineered to deliver exceptional strength, durability, and compatibility across diverse railway operations. These rails are designed for both heavy freight and high-capacity passenger lines, ensuring long-term performance under demanding conditions. Below is a detailed breakdown of their key features, specifications, and applications.

Detailed Dimensional Specifications

The physical dimensions of a rail directly influence its load-bearing capacity, stability, and suitability for specific track environments. The "RE" designation refers to the rail's profile shape—specifically, the "Railway Engineering" standard used in North America. The number preceding "RE" indicates the rail’s weight in pounds per yard (commonly referenced per foot).

115RE Rail

• Nominal Weight: 115 pounds per foot (approximately 57 kg/m)
• Height: 6.0 inches (152.4 mm)
• Base Width: 5.0 inches (127 mm)
• Head Width: 2.75 inches (69.85 mm)
• Web Thickness: 0.625 inches (15.88 mm)
• Material: High-strength carbon steel (typically ASTM A1 or AREMA Grade C)

The 115RE rail offers a balanced combination of strength and flexibility, making it ideal for secondary mainlines, yard tracks, and regional freight routes where moderate traffic volumes are expected.

136RE Rail

• Nominal Weight: 136 pounds per foot (approximately 67.5 kg/m)
• Height: 6.5 inches (165.1 mm)
• Base Width: 6.0 inches (152.4 mm)
• Head Width: 3.0 inches (76.2 mm)
• Web Thickness: 0.75 inches (19.05 mm)
• Material: High-tensile carbon steel with enhanced wear resistance (AREMA Grade D or equivalent)

The 136RE rail is engineered for high-stress environments, including major freight corridors and high-speed passenger lines. Its increased mass improves resistance to wear, deformation, and thermal stress, extending service life and reducing maintenance frequency.

Standardized Manufacturing and Quality Assurance

Both 115RE and 136RE rails are manufactured in strict compliance with standards set by the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA), ensuring uniformity, safety, and interoperability across North American rail networks. Key aspects of the manufacturing process include:

• Precision Rolling: Rails are hot-rolled using computer-controlled mills to maintain exact dimensional tolerances.
• Heat Treatment: Controlled cooling processes enhance hardness and fatigue resistance, particularly in the rail head where wheel contact occurs.
• Ultrasonic Testing: Every rail undergoes non-destructive testing to detect internal flaws such as voids, inclusions, or micro-cracks.
• Surface Finish: Smooth head profiles reduce rolling resistance and noise while improving wheel-rail interaction.

This rigorous production framework ensures that rails meet critical performance benchmarks for safety, longevity, and operational efficiency.

High Load Capacity and Operational Performance

One of the defining characteristics of 115RE and 136RE rails is their ability to support heavy axle loads and high traffic volumes. The increased weight per foot directly correlates with improved load distribution and reduced deflection under dynamic train loads.

Rail Type	Weight (lb/ft)	Typical Application	Max Axle Load Capacity	Service Life (Est.)
115RE	115	Secondary Mainlines, Yards, Industrial Spurs	36–40 tons	25–35 years
136RE	136	Mainline Freight, High-Speed Passenger, Mountain Grades	40–45 tons	40+ years

The 136RE rail, with its greater mass and structural robustness, is especially suited for routes with continuous heavy freight traffic, such as coal, intermodal, and bulk commodity lines. Meanwhile, the 115RE rail remains a cost-effective solution for lines with lower traffic density but still requiring reliable performance.

Note: Proper installation, trackbed preparation, and regular inspection are essential to maximize the performance and lifespan of both 115RE and 136RE rails. Using incorrect fastening systems or neglecting ballast maintenance can lead to premature wear, rail buckling, or track misalignment. Always adhere to AREMA Chapter 30 guidelines for track design and maintenance.

Uses of 115RE and 136RE Railroad Rails

115RE and 136RE railroad rails are among the most widely used rail profiles in North American rail infrastructure, known for their strength, durability, and compatibility with modern railway systems. These rails—named for their weight per yard (115 and 136 pounds per foot, respectively)—are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of various rail operations. Their standardized design and structural integrity make them ideal for a broad spectrum of applications, from freight transport to high-traffic passenger corridors.

Freight Transportation

115RE rails are a staple in freight rail networks due to their optimal balance of strength and cost-efficiency. Designed to support heavy axle loads, they are commonly used on secondary and regional freight lines where large volumes of cargo are transported over long distances.

• Support heavy freight trains carrying bulk commodities such as coal, iron ore, grain, and petroleum
• Provide excellent load distribution and track stability under continuous heavy use
• Offer long service life with minimal maintenance, reducing lifecycle costs
• Compatible with standard gauge track systems and existing rail infrastructure

Key advantage: Proven reliability in Class II and III railroad operations with moderate to high traffic density

Passenger Transit

115RE rails are also widely used in passenger rail systems, including commuter and intercity services. Their smooth profile and consistent metallurgy contribute to a quieter, more comfortable ride, which is essential for passenger satisfaction.

• Reduce noise and vibration, enhancing ride quality for passengers
• Support high-speed operations when paired with continuous welded rail and proper ballast
• Used in light rail, regional rail, and Amtrak corridors across the U.S.
• Maintain track geometry over time, minimizing the need for frequent realignment

Pro tip: When combined with resilient fastening systems, 115RE rails significantly improve acoustic performance in urban environments

Heavy-Duty Applications

The 136RE rail, being significantly heavier and more robust, is engineered for high-stress environments. It is typically deployed in mainline freight corridors and industrial zones where traffic volume and train weights are exceptionally high.

• Used in Class I railroad mainlines with heavy tonnage and frequent train movements
• Ideal for mountainous or high-gradient routes where braking forces and dynamic loads are intense
• Offers superior resistance to wear, deformation, and rail fatigue
• Extends track maintenance intervals, improving operational efficiency

Critical benefit: The increased cross-sectional area of 136RE rails enhances energy absorption and reduces rail buckling in extreme temperatures

Modular Construction & Track Integration

Both 115RE and 136RE rails are designed to integrate seamlessly with standardized track components, enabling modular construction and rapid deployment. This compatibility is essential for efficient track laying, maintenance, and upgrades.

• Work seamlessly with switches, turnouts, and crossing assemblies from major manufacturers
• Easily connected using standard joint bars, bolts, and rail anchors
• Compatible with modern track inspection and maintenance equipment
• Support prefabricated track panels for faster installation in new builds or replacements

Time-saving insight: Standardized profiles reduce engineering overhead and streamline supply chain logistics

Compatibility with Heavy Rolling Stock

The structural design of both 115RE and 136RE rails ensures full compatibility with modern heavy locomotives and freight cars, including high-capacity gondolas, tank cars, and articulated units.

• Distribute axle loads effectively across the rail base and substructure
• Minimize rail head wear and gauge widening under repeated heavy loading
• Withstand lateral forces from long, heavy trains navigating curves
• Reduce risk of rail rollover or fracture in high-traffic zones

Engineering note: Proper ballast depth and tie spacing are crucial to maximizing load-bearing performance

Industrial & Terminal Applications

These rails are also extensively used in industrial settings such as ports, steel mills, mining operations, and intermodal terminals, where durability and low maintenance are paramount.

• Support heavy-duty transfer operations in container yards and bulk terminals
• Resist damage from frequent shunting and low-speed impacts
• Withstand exposure to corrosive materials like salt, chemicals, and moisture
• Used in loop tracks, storage yards, and classification yards

Operational benefit: Long-term cost savings due to reduced rail replacement and track downtime

Professional Recommendation: When selecting between 115RE and 136RE rails, consider traffic volume, axle load, speed requirements, and environmental conditions. For most regional freight and passenger lines, 115RE offers an excellent balance of performance and economy. For high-density mainlines or industrial zones with extreme loading, 136RE provides superior longevity and safety. Always consult engineering standards (such as AREMA guidelines) and conduct a lifecycle cost analysis before finalizing rail specifications.

Rail Type	Weight (lb/ft)	Primary Use Case	Max Axle Load Capacity	Lifespan (Miles of Traffic)
115RE	115	Freight & Passenger Transit	36 tons	500–700 million gross tons
136RE	136	Mainline Freight & Heavy Industry	40+ tons	800–1,200 million gross tons

Additional Considerations

• Material Quality: Both rails are typically made from high-strength pearlitic steel with controlled carbon content for optimal wear resistance and toughness
• Weldability: Designed for flash-butt or thermite welding to create continuous welded rail (CWR) tracks
• Thermal Performance: Resistant to thermal expansion issues when properly anchored and stressed
• Sustainability: Fully recyclable at end-of-life; many rails are made from recycled steel content
• Standards Compliance: Manufactured to meet ASTM A1/A1M and AREMA specifications for rail steel

How to Choose 115RE and 136RE Railroad Rails: A Comprehensive Guide for Business Buyers

Selecting the right railroad rail is a critical decision for distributors, contractors, and industrial operators. The choice between 115RE and 136RE rails significantly impacts performance, safety, and long-term cost-efficiency. These two rail profiles are among the most commonly used in North American rail infrastructure, each designed for specific operational demands. This guide provides an in-depth comparison of 115RE and 136RE rails, covering weight specifications, geographical suitability, rolling stock compatibility, installation logistics, maintenance requirements, and total cost of ownership to help business owners make informed purchasing decisions for resale or deployment.

Important Note: The "RE" in 115RE and 136RE stands for "Rail, English" and refers to the American standard rail section profile. These rails are manufactured to meet strict ASTM A1 specification standards for chemical composition, tensile strength, and dimensional accuracy, ensuring compatibility with standard rail fastening systems and track components.

Key Considerations When Choosing Between 115RE and 136RE Rails

• Weight and Structural Capacity

  115RE Rail: Weighs 115 pounds per linear foot (approximately 57 kg/m), making it a medium-duty rail ideal for regional freight lines, industrial spurs, and lighter mainline applications. Its balanced strength-to-weight ratio offers sufficient load-bearing capacity for trains with axle loads up to 263,000 lbs (120 metric tons), while remaining manageable during installation.

  136RE Rail: Significantly heavier at 136 pounds per foot (about 67.5 kg/m), this rail is engineered for high-capacity freight corridors, intermodal terminals, and heavy-haul operations. The increased mass enhances resistance to wear, deformation, and dynamic loading, supporting axle weights exceeding 300,000 lbs (136 metric tons). This makes it a preferred choice for Class I railroads and major logistics hubs.

• Geographical and Track Layout Suitability

  115RE Rail: Best suited for relatively flat, straight, or gently curved track sections. Its lighter weight allows for easier handling and faster installation in areas with minimal elevation changes and broad-radius curves. Commonly used in yard switching operations, short-line railroads, and mining or logging operations with moderate traffic density.

  136RE Rail: Excels in challenging terrains with steep gradients, tight curves, and high lateral forces. The additional weight improves track stability by increasing inertia and reducing rail movement under dynamic loads. This is particularly beneficial on mountainous routes, sharp turnouts, and heavily trafficked junctions where derailment risk must be minimized.

• Rolling Stock Compatibility and Future-Proofing

  115RE Rail: Optimized for lighter freight cars, regional locomotives, and passenger equipment. While adequate for many applications, it may limit future upgrades to heavier rolling stock or increased train frequencies due to wear and fatigue concerns.

  136RE Rail: Offers superior compatibility with modern heavy-haul freight cars, double-stack intermodal trains, and high-powered locomotives. Its robust design accommodates evolving industry trends toward longer, heavier trains, making it a future-proof investment for growing operations. Many rail operators choose 136RE even for moderate-use lines to ensure long-term scalability.

• Installation and Maintenance Logistics

  115RE Rail: Due to its lighter weight, 115RE rails are easier to transport, lift, and align during track laying. Installation typically requires fewer crew members and less heavy machinery, reducing labor costs and project timelines. Ideal for remote locations or projects with limited access to cranes and rail-mounted equipment.

  136RE Rail: Requires more robust handling equipment such as rail tongs, gantry cranes, or rail-laying machines. Installation crews must be trained in heavy rail handling, and safety protocols are more stringent. However, once installed, 136RE rails exhibit longer service life and reduced wear rates, potentially lowering long-term maintenance frequency despite higher initial labor investment.

• Cost Analysis and Total Ownership Value

  115RE Rail: Lower initial purchase price per ton makes it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. However, its shorter lifespan under heavy use and potentially higher wear rates may lead to more frequent rail replacement and higher lifecycle costs in high-traffic environments.

  136RE Rail: Higher upfront cost due to increased steel content and manufacturing complexity. Yet, its superior durability, extended maintenance intervals, and resistance to corrugation and rolling contact fatigue often result in lower cost per million gross tons (MGT) moved. For large-scale operations, the 136RE frequently delivers better return on investment over time.

Feature	115RE Rail	136RE Rail	Best Use Case
Weight (lbs/ft)	115	136	Match to expected axle loads
Typical Application	Regional freight, spurs, yards	Mainlines, heavy haul, intermodal	Align with traffic volume and weight
Installation Effort	Lower (fewer resources needed)	Higher (requires heavy equipment)	Consider site accessibility
Maintenance Frequency	Moderate	Lower (due to durability)	Factor in labor and downtime costs
Initial Cost	Lower	Higher	Evaluate total lifecycle cost
Service Life Expectancy	10–15 years (moderate use)	15–25+ years (heavy use)	Plan for long-term ROI

Pro Tip: When reselling rails, clearly document the rail's origin, heat number, and prior service history. Rails with known metallurgical properties and wear records command higher resale value. Additionally, consider offering both 115RE and 136RE options to cater to diverse customer needs—from short-line operators to large industrial complexes.

Additional Recommendations for Resellers and Contractors

• Verify rail certification and mill test reports to ensure compliance with current ASTM and AREMA standards
• Inspect rails for surface defects, end damage, and proper gauge before resale
• Store rails on level, well-drained surfaces with proper blocking to prevent distortion
• Offer value-added services such as cutting, drilling, or pre-assembly to differentiate your product
• Stay updated on industry trends, including the growing demand for head-hardened (HH) and premium-grade rails

Choosing between 115RE and 136RE rails is not just a matter of weight—it's a strategic decision that affects safety, efficiency, and profitability. While 115RE offers cost-effective solutions for lighter-duty applications, 136RE provides unmatched durability and performance for high-demand environments. By understanding the operational requirements, geographic challenges, and long-term cost implications, business owners can confidently select and recommend the right rail for every project, maximizing value for both themselves and their customers.

Frequently Asked Questions About 115RE and 136RE Railroad Rails

Q1. Are 115RE and 136RE rails interchangeable?

While both 115RE and 136RE railroad rails are manufactured in accordance with AREMA (American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association) standards, ensuring compatibility with similar installation equipment and fastening systems, they are not fully interchangeable due to key structural differences.

• Weight & Dimensions: The 115RE rail weighs approximately 115 pounds per yard, whereas the 136RE weighs 136 pounds per yard. This difference affects load distribution, track stability, and stress resistance.
• Application Suitability: The 115RE is engineered for light to moderate traffic lines, such as regional or secondary rail routes, where axle loads are lower. In contrast, the 136RE is built for heavy-duty applications, including mainline freight corridors and high-traffic networks.
• Track Performance: Substituting one for the other can compromise safety, increase wear, and lead to premature failure—especially if a lighter rail is used in a high-stress environment.

In summary, while installation methods may be similar, the rails serve distinct operational roles and should not be used interchangeably without engineering review and regulatory approval.

Q2. What is the lifespan of 115RE and 136RE rails?

The service life of both 115RE and 136RE rails typically averages around 50 years, but this can vary significantly based on several critical factors:

• Traffic Volume: High-frequency usage accelerates wear, particularly on curves and braking zones.
• Maintenance Regimen: Regular grinding, inspection, and alignment corrections can extend rail life by reducing fatigue and corrugation.
• Environmental Conditions: Exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and corrosive elements (e.g., coastal or industrial areas) can shorten longevity.
• Load Intensity: Heavier freight trains exert greater stress, especially on 115RE rails, potentially reducing their effective lifespan below 50 years.

With optimal conditions—such as low-corrosion environments, consistent maintenance, and appropriate load matching—both rail types can exceed their expected lifespan, with some installations lasting 60–70 years or more.

Q3. Do 115RE and 136RE require special maintenance?

Both rail types follow standard railway maintenance protocols, but the intensity and frequency of care differ due to their operational demands:

• Inspection Frequency: 136RE rails, often deployed in high-traffic zones, require more frequent ultrasonic testing and visual inspections to detect internal flaws and surface defects.
• Grinding & Resurfacing: To combat head checks and rolling contact fatigue, both rails benefit from periodic rail grinding; however, 136RE rails may need more strategic scheduling due to higher stress exposure.
• Lubrication: Gauge face lubrication is crucial on curved sections to reduce friction and wear—especially for 136RE rails handling heavy freight.
• Fastener & Tie Checks: Regular tightening of fasteners and inspection of ties ensure proper rail alignment and support, preventing misalignment or gauge spreading.

While no "special" tools are required beyond standard railway maintenance equipment, the 136RE’s role in critical infrastructure often necessitates a more rigorous and proactive maintenance strategy to ensure reliability and safety.

Q4. Do 115RE and 136RE have resistance to extreme weather?

Yes, both 115RE and 136RE rails are constructed from high-strength carbon steel, which provides excellent resilience against a wide range of environmental challenges, including:

• Temperature Extremes: These rails maintain structural integrity in temperatures ranging from -40°F to over 120°F, making them suitable for arctic, desert, and temperate climates.
• Thermal Expansion: Properly installed tracks with expansion joints and continuous welded rail (CWR) techniques manage thermal stress effectively.
• Corrosion Vulnerability: While carbon steel is durable, it is susceptible to rust in humid, coastal, or chemically exposed environments.

To enhance weather resistance, especially in corrosive zones, additional protective measures are recommended:

• Galvanization or Zinc Coating: Applied to fasteners and sometimes rail components to prevent rust.
• Epoxy or Polymer Coatings: Used selectively on rail bases or in switch areas to inhibit moisture contact.
• Cathodic Protection: In extreme cases, such as bridges or tunnels, electrochemical methods may be employed.

These treatments significantly improve durability without altering the rail’s mechanical performance.

Q5. How do the 115RE and 136RE perform in terms of load capacity?

Load capacity is directly related to rail weight, cross-sectional area, and material strength—factors in which the 136RE holds a distinct advantage over the 115RE:

Performance Factor	115RE Rail	136RE Rail
Weight per Yard	115 lbs	136 lbs
Load Suitability	Light to moderate freight, passenger lines	Heavy-haul freight, mainline traffic
Stress Resistance	Good for standard axle loads (up to ~36 tons)	Superior for high axle loads (39+ tons)
Typical Use Case	Branch lines, industrial spurs, regional networks	Transcontinental routes, mining railways, intermodal hubs
Wear Rate Under Load	Moderate; requires monitoring in high-use zones	Lower due to increased mass and hardness

The 136RE’s greater mass allows it to better distribute dynamic forces from passing trains, reducing deformation and extending service intervals. Meanwhile, the 115RE remains a cost-effective and reliable solution for less intensive operations, offering balanced performance for regional rail systems where extreme loads are uncommon.