A sample size of the first crosstie made with 100 percent repurposed carpet.
Replacing Timber Crossties
The solution to the problems found with timber crossties is our composite rail tie product that allows heavier freight loads, higher speeds, greater longevity, with no adverse environmental effects.
Why Change from Wood Ties
• Increased wheel loads per axle (32 → 39 tons)
• Wood ties have a shorter lifespan
• Changing environmental regulations directed at chemically treated wood
• Diminished tie-life and performance from some new (rapid-growth) timber
• Rising Cost of Wood
• Significant number of trees needed to meet the demand for replacement ties
Composite Tie Advantages
• Diverts waste plastics from landfills
• Inherently resistant to moisture, rot and insects without poisonous chemical treatments
• Recyclable
• Lower lifecycle costs
• Stronger than wood
• Can be used alongside wood ties for tie maintenance activities
Open Deck Bridges
• Formosan termites are extremely aggressive to all oak in all uses
• Higher bridge deck costs, more frequent replacement
• Concrete ties probably not workable here
• Lack of impact resistance and attenuation
• High dead load compared to timber
Our product’s strengths:
ACR’s composite crosstie product is ideal for new and replacement operations of railroad track.
• Offers strength and durability while offering similar weight and lateral stability as its timber counterpart.
• Can be engineered to match the desired mechanical properties as wooden cross ties for direct replacement.
• Has a prolonged service life due to an enhanced durability and requires less maintenance.
• Lighter weight, combined with improved installation procedures to timber crossties, render it an extremely competitive solution.
Using the SelecTieIII Modeling Tool from Oregon State University and the Railway Tie Association, we found an $86 NPV savings per tie using composite over timber.
ACR’s Advantages
Certification: A local laboratory has tested our prototypes against oak ties and confirmed that they meet and exceed standards. ACR can manufacture and deliver samples for field testing to both regulated and unregulated customers.
Value Based Pricing: Using our patented processing technology and manufacturing expertise, we will produce customized, weatherproof lumber substitutes that surpass industry standards and outperform wood, concrete, steel, and other competitors’ products. Most importantly, our products are expected to last over 50 years, which outlast our competition.
Cost Efficient Solution: Overtime, our composite crossties offer significant cost savings due to reduced replacement operations and lifecycle costs, especially in hot and humid regions.
Environmental Advantages: Recycled carpet used in crosstie applications performs well, lasts longer, and offers environmental benefits due to its resistance to rot, insects, and harmful preservatives.
Green Process: ACR’s product reduces CO2 emissions and eliminates toxic discharges compared to creosote or CCA treated wooden crossties. Additionally, it significantly decreases the amount of used and discarded carpet deposits in landfills.
