Plastic sleepers are sub-rail infrastructure components made from recycled plastic materials or polymer-based composites, designed to secure railway rails and evenly transfer train loads to the substructure via ballast.

Material Structure and Production Process

Plastic sleepers are manufactured using thermoplastics such as recycled polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), reinforced with materials like glass fiber, wood powder, and carbon fiber. Production is typically carried out through extrusion or molding techniques. Some models include hybrid structures with internal steel reinforcements.

Technical Specifications

• Dimensions: Typically 250–270 cm in length and 20–30 cm in width
• Weight: Ranges between 80–120 kg
• Durability: Offers a service life of 40–50 years under suitable conditions
• Electrical Insulation: High level; suitable for signaling systems
• Moisture Resistance: Has an almost zero water absorption rate
• Corrosion Resistance: Highly resistant to chemical and biological degradation

Areas of Use

• Urban rail transit systems (metro, tram)
• Electrified and signaled lines
• Industrial internal tracks and port connection routes
• Tunnel lines and high-moisture ground areas
• Natural areas with high environmental sensitivity

Advantages

• Eco-friendly: Offers an environmentally friendly use by utilizing recycled plastics
• Electrical Insulation: Ensures safe operation in signaling systems
• Long Lifespan: Resistant to chemicals, moisture, and microorganisms
• Vibration Damping: Reduces shocks caused by passing trains
• Lightweight and Easy Installation: Lighter than concrete sleepers

Limitations

• High Cost: Initial investment is higher than for concrete and wooden sleepers
• Temperature Sensitivity: Risk of expansion in extreme heat conditions
• Connection Compatibility: May not be suitable for all rail fastening systems
• Lack of National Standard: A specific TSE standard has not yet been developed in Türkiye

International Practices and Standards

• AREMA Chapter 30 (USA): Defines the technical criteria for plastic sleepers
• EN 13481-4 (Europe): Covers composite materials compatible with rail fastening systems
• UIC (International Union of Railways): In the process of preparing a technical specification for plastic sleepers

Plastic sleepers offer important advantages in terms of sustainability, maintenance ease, and long service life as alternative components in railway infrastructure. Although not yet widespread in Türkiye, they are expected to be used more frequently in the future within signaling systems, metro lines, and environmentally friendly projects. Lowering costs and developing technical standards at the national level are key factors that will accelerate this process.