Switch Rods

Nortrak offers a complete range of turnout rod solutions designed to provide reliable switch operation across freight, transit, industrial, and yard applications. Our portfolio includes traditional steel switch rods, Blue Rod composite technology, and specialized rod configurations engineered to meet specific operational and maintenance requirements.

Whether customers require proven traditional designs or advanced insulated rod technology, Nortrak rod systems are engineered for long-term performance, durability, and dependable turnout operation.

Traditional Switch Rods

Nortrak manufactures traditional switch rods for use with RACOR manual and power switch drives. Designed to transfer movement efficiently and maintain proper point alignment, these rods provide dependable performance in a wide range of railway environments.

Benefits

Compatible with manual and powered switch systems
Proven field performance
Engineered for long service life
Available for various turnout configurations
Designed to withstand demanding railway operating conditions

Blue Rods

Blue Rod technology utilizes pre-stressed glass-fiber composite rods engineered to provide exceptional mechanical strength while delivering electrical isolation. Developed to address common insulation concerns associated with traditional bolted steel rod assemblies, Blue Rod technology helps improve reliability and reduce maintenance requirements.

Blue Rods

Key Advantages

Tensile strength of 100,000 PSI
Approximately three times stronger than mild steel
Impact strength approximately three times greater than mild steel
Lower thermal expansion than steel
Excellent dielectric properties
Electrical insulation capabilities
Helps eliminate common insulation failure points
Reduced maintenance requirements
Long-term durability in railway environments

Property	Value
Material	Pre-stressed glass-fiber composite
Tensile Strength	100,000 PSI
Flexural Modulus	6.0 × 10⁶ PSI
Impact Strength	49 ft-lb/in
Thermal Expansion	3.0 × 10⁻⁶ in/in/°F
Dielectric Strength	>400 volts/mil

HST Applications

Blue Rod technology is available for HST® applications, providing enhanced electrical isolation and long-term durability while supporting reliable turnout performance. When integrated into an HST system, Blue Rod technology can help reduce maintenance requirements and improve operational reliability.

Learn More About HST®