Railroad Track Cross-Section

Due to my interest in rail, I decided to make a cross-section of railroad track as a passion project. I connected with employees from the regional rail line (Caltrain) and acquired a genuine segment of railroad rail as well as spikes.

I used a variety of tools to clean up the metal and remove corrosion. I then clear-coated all of the metal components to prevent further oxidation.

I cut a large piece of wood to serve as my replica tie (real ties are nasty and covered in creosote). I pre-drilled holes in the wooden tie, which is not prototypical, but I did to be sure that I wouldn't split my piece of wood. The holes are undersized such that the spikes still hold the rail to the tie using friction alone. It is possible to lift the whole assembly from the rail.

I then stained and clear-coated the tie.

I test fit everything and drove the spikes into the tie. The spikes are the large nails that hold the rail onto the tie through the tie plate.

After the main components were assembled, I added rubber feet to the base of the tie.

I then cut a sheet of brass to size. I polished the surface and then laser-etched text onto the plaque. A laser-cut template helped me center it correctly.

And just like that I have a beautiful 60lb paperweight! I had a lot of fun with this project, not only because of all of the new skills I learned, but also because I enjoyed connecting with my regional transit agency.