Why do railway tracks not rust?

Why Don’t Railway Tracks Rust Away?

Railway tracks, seemingly exposed to the elements year-round, might appear vulnerable to rust and decay. Surprisingly, they don’t corrode as quickly as one might expect. Several factors contribute to their longevity, primarily relating to their design, construction, and environment.

The key to understanding the rust resistance of railway tracks lies in minimizing contact with the primary culprit: moisture. The elevated position of the tracks, sitting atop a bed of ballast (typically crushed stone) and sleepers (either wooden or concrete), plays a crucial role. This setup creates drainage, preventing water from pooling around the steel and limiting its exposure to moisture. The ballast also allows for air circulation, further aiding in keeping the tracks dry.

The top surface of the rail, where the train wheels make contact, experiences the least amount of rust. This is due to the constant friction generated by passing trains, which effectively polishes the steel and removes any nascent corrosion. This constant wear and tear, ironically, becomes a protective mechanism.

While the top surface remains relatively rust-free, some corrosion does occur on the sides and bottom of the rails. These areas are less exposed to the scrubbing action of the wheels and therefore more susceptible to moisture. However, even here, the rusting rate remains relatively slow. The sheer mass of the steel rails means it takes considerable time for significant corrosion to occur. Furthermore, modern rails are often made from steel alloys designed to enhance their resistance to corrosion.

Environmental factors also influence the rate of rusting. In particularly damp environments, such as coastal regions or areas with consistently high humidity and rainfall coupled with specific soil compositions, corrosion can become a more significant concern. In these instances, railway operators often implement additional preventative measures, like applying protective coatings or using specialized alloys to combat the accelerated rusting process.

It’s important to remember that while rusting is a natural process for steel, it’s a slow one, especially in the context of railway tracks. The combination of design, materials, and regular maintenance ensures that these vital arteries of transportation remain functional and safe for years, even decades, despite the constant exposure to the elements. So, the next time you see a train rolling down the tracks, remember that it’s not just the engine pulling it forward; it’s also clever engineering keeping the rust at bay.