Hinged Railroad Derails

Accidental train derailments can be damaging to equipment and track. They also pose a danger to rail workers, crew, passengers, and anyone within the surrounding area, and can potentially cause harmful effects to the environment.

Purposeful derailments for railcars and locomotives using a derail device are utilized to prevent and control movement. Derails help prevent one car from rolling into another, unauthorized locomotive coupling to a stationary car and a loose car rolling out onto the mainline. OSHA, FRA, and DOT regulations require derail protection for all active rail sidings.

Derails work by lifting the flanges of the wheels and dropping them clear of the rails. At the same time the wheel on the other rail falls between the rails. The derailed wheels bite into the soft surface of the ties and ballast, then slide to a stop. Permanent and portable derails are both used to achieve this function.

Hinged derails are spiked to two ties and can be flipped on or off rail by hand or by using a lifting lever. Hinged derails are designed to be used on exposed track (open to the ties), on wood, or steel ties. Aldon Company, Inc. can assist you in finding the correct model and placement location based on your needed application.

Since the founding of Aldon Company, Inc., Inc. in 1904, our product line has expanded, and our on-site engineers are ready to assist you to keep your rail yard running efficiently. View our hinged derail products below or contact our team today for assistance in purchasing.