Composite railroad ties with optional integral conduit

US6659362B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• Gerald Hallissy · Great Neck, US
• William Higbie · Brookhaven, US
• Edward R. Fyfe · Del Mar, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 12, 2002
• Grant date: Dec 9, 2003
• Expiry date: Mar 12, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC E): Fixed Constructions
• CPC primary: E01B3/10
• WIPO field: Civil engineering
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

Railroad ties may be refurbished or have their usable life extended by overwrapping with fibrous reinforcement containing a cured matrix associated with the fibers. The ties may be machined prior to overwrapping, and are preferably sawn along their length, and conduit inserted into channels machined therein prior to adhesively bonding the sawn portions together. The conduits may be used to provide signal and power cable passages with lessened likelihood of damage thereto.