Plastic Railway Ties

Calgary Transit is now using thermoplastic (plastic) railroad ties designed from 100% recycled plastic. These plastic ties are used in railroad crossings whereby the ties are set under the road level so vehicles can cross the tracks in an “at-grade intersection”. These new ties are inert and they are impervious to insect infestation, don’t contain any harmful chemicals and will not warp. Because these plastic ties are lighter than the traditional wooden ties, transporting the plastic ties is less expensive and reduces energy costs. In addition the plastic ties can be completely recycled at the end of its functional life.

Using plastic ties in railroad crossings will also reduce the need to dispose of wooden ties treated with creosote into landfill sites; thus reducing the environmental impact of harmful substances leaching into the ground.

Typical layout of a Rail Crossing