68kg Rail — AS 1085.1 (AS68)

The heaviest profile in the AS1085.1 standard range. AS68 and 136RE are dimensionally equivalent profiles used for heavy duty mainline and industrial rail applications.

Standard Rail — AS 1085.1

68kg Rail — AS68 and 136RE

The 68kg rail profile, designated AS68 under AS1085.1, is the heaviest profile in the current Australian Standard. It is used for heavy duty mainline freight, mining haulage and heavy industrial applications where maximum structural strength is required.

The 136RE is a separate AREMA-standard profile that is sometimes referenced alongside AS68 in the context of Australian heavy haul rail. While the two profiles are often discussed together, they are distinct specifications under different standards. If you are working with either profile, contact us with your project details and we will advise on what is available and appropriate for your application.

68kg AS68 standard rail profile
74.6mm
Head Width
185.7mm
Height
152.4mm
Foot Width
17.5mm
Web
67.6
kg / metre
AS 1085.1
Standard
Applications

Where 68kg Rail is Used

The AS68/136RE profile is used for the heaviest duty mainline and industrial applications where the 60kg profile is insufficient. It is found on heavy haul freight networks, major port infrastructure and demanding industrial operations.

Heavy Haul
High tonnage mainline freight corridors including iron ore, coal and grain haulage routes
Mining
Heavy mining haulage networks where maximum structural strength and wear resistance are required
Ports and Terminals
Major port crane runways, ship loader tracks and container terminal infrastructure
Industrial
Heavy industrial sidings, steel plant internal track and high-impact loading zones
Replacement
Like-for-like replacement on existing AS68 or 136RE track where maintaining rail section is required
Enquiries
Send us your project details, rail profile and application and we will advise on availability and supply options. Get in touch
FAQ

68kg Rail: Common Questions

What is 68kg rail used for?
68kg rail (AS68) is the heaviest profile in the AS1085.1 Australian Standard. It is used for heavy haul mainline freight, mining haulage, major port crane runways and heavy industrial track where maximum structural strength and wear resistance are required and the 60kg profile is insufficient.
What are the dimensions of 68kg rail?
AS68 68kg rail has a head width of 74.6mm, a height of 185.7mm, a foot width of 152.4mm and a web thickness of 17.5mm. The calculated mass is approximately 67.6 kg per metre. These dimensions are specified under AS1085.1 and are dimensionally identical to the AREMA 136RE profile.
What is the relationship between AS68 and 136RE?
AS68 and 136RE are separate profiles under different standards — AS68 under the Australian AS1085.1 standard, and 136RE under the American AREMA standard. They are sometimes referenced together in the context of Australian heavy haul rail, but they are distinct specifications. Whether one can substitute for the other in a given application depends on the specific engineering requirements, fastening systems and network approval. Contact us with your project details and we will advise on the right approach.
What is the difference between 68kg and 60kg rail?
The 68kg profile is taller (185.7mm vs 170mm), wider in the foot (152.4mm vs 146mm) and heavier (67.6 kg/m vs 60.6 kg/m) than the 60kg. This gives it significantly higher section modulus and load capacity. The 68kg is specified for the heaviest duty applications where the 60kg is insufficient.
What clips are compatible with 68kg rail?
Compatible welded clips for 68kg include the M120 and M165. Compatible bolted clips include the CLX-20 and CLX-24. Clip selection depends on the substructure type and load requirements. Send us your application details and we will advise on the correct clip.
What lengths is 68kg rail available in?
68kg rail is typically supplied in lengths of 12.19m and 13.72m, corresponding to the imperial 40ft and 45ft lengths. Other lengths may be available depending on the source. Send us your project requirements and we will advise on what is available.

Enquiries on 68kg Rail

Send us your project details, rail profile and application and we will come back with practical information on availability and supply options.

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