I just found this at the side of the tracks, does anyone know what it is (or could be)?
Trevor
Supposition is that it is a tag to identify at 136 to 141 pound rail comprimise joint bar set. - where different rail designs meet there has to be what is known as a ‘comprimise joint’ to securly fasten them together, if the rails are not being welded together.
Undoubtedly it’s a tag related to the 136 lb. and/ or 141 lb. AREMA rail sections as BaltACD suggests - they’re identical except for a little more metal in the head area of the 141. So, the same tag could apply to either one for something like a joint bar, insulated joint, rail lubricator wiper bar, rails clips or rail anchors, tie plates, maybe even grade crossing panels, etc., etc. One item it would not apply to is a switch point rail, frog, or guard rail - though it might apply to the heel block or some of the “jewelry” / Other Track Material (OTM) such as the rods, clips, brace plates, etc.
- Paul North.