Performance of Western Wood Species as Crossties in Mainline Railroad Track

Crossties of nine Oregon wood species are being tested in mainline railroad tracks in California, Oregon, and Arizona. Climatic conditions and topography vary widely among the sites where the ties have served for the past 22 to 27 years. The ties have been inspected periodically and their condition noted for checking and wear that might affect service life. All had been similarly prepared and pressure treated with a creosote-petroleum solution. Ties that were in good condition or were only moderately checked when inserted have usually been longer lasting than those that initially were split or badly checked. Plate cutting, wide checks, and splits have been common defects in ties that have had to be renewed. Other defects including decay are still generally uncommon. Ties of incense-cedar, lodgepole pine, Shasta fir, west coast hemlock, and tanoak have been as durable as those of Douglas-fir. Some of the other species being tested may perform as well but need further evaluation.

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