Track Bolt
Bolts · rail bolt · railroad bolt · oval neck bolt
Definition: A track bolt has an oval (elliptical) neck that locks into the rail and a dome head, used to fasten railroad rails to joint bars and tie plates.
Anatomy & Schematic
■ Head■ Shank■ Threads■ Point
Governing standards: AREMA (railway) · ASME B18.2.1
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7/8-9 | M22 | — | 2-1/2 to 5 long |
| 1-8 | M24 | — | 3 to 6 long |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Track grade | medium carbon steel | — | None |
| Quenched & tempered | alloy steel | — | Manufacturer mark |
Materials
- Carbon steel
- Quenched & tempered steel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Oval neck locks in the rail
- Withstands rail vibration
- Long service life
Cons
- Only fits rail applications
- Big and heavy
- Needs heavy tooling
Typical Uses
- Railroad track joints
- Joint bars
- Tie plates
- Rail switches and frogs
Alternatives & Related
- Carriage Bolt — Square-neck bolt for general use
- Hex Bolt — Standard bolted joints
Where to Buy
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FAQ
What is a track bolt?
A dome-head bolt with an oval neck that keys into the rail, used to join rails with joint bars on railroad track.
Why does a track bolt have an oval neck?
The oval neck fits an oval hole in the rail, stopping the bolt from turning under the vibration of passing trains.