Hi-Rail Section Trucks & Why They’re So Useful: A Quick Guide

Hi-Rail Truck Rental

Hi-Rail Truck Rental is a popular option for those in the rail industry looking for a versatile and efficient way to transport equipment and materials. Hi-Rail trucks, also known as “road-rail” vehicles, are designed to operate on both highways and rail tracks, making them a convenient choice for companies that work on both land and rail.

What are Hi-Rail Section Trucks?

Hi-Rail section trucks are specialized vehicles that are equipped with retractable flanged wheels, allowing them to switch between road and rail modes. They can be driven on roads like any other truck, but when the flanged wheels are deployed, they can travel on rail tracks. Hi-Rail trucks come in a variety of sizes and configurations, including flatbeds, boom trucks, and cranes, to suit the needs of different industries and applications.

Benefits of Hi-Rail Section Trucks

There are several reasons why Hi-Rail trucks are so useful in the rail industry:

  1. Versatility: As mentioned earlier, the ability to operate on both roads and rails gives Hi-Rail trucks a level of versatility that other vehicles don’t have. They can be used to transport equipment and materials to and from rail yards and worksites, as well as to perform maintenance and repair work on the tracks themselves.
  2. Efficiency: Hi-Rail trucks can travel on both roads and rails, which means they can take the most direct route to their destination. This can save time and fuel, as they don’t have to follow circuitous road routes or wait for a train to arrive.
  3. Safety: Hi-Rail trucks are equipped with safety features such as flashing lights, bells, and reflective tape to make them more visible on the tracks. They also have a lower center of gravity and wider wheels than regular trucks, which makes them more stable and less prone to tipping over.
  4. Cost-effective: Hi-Rail truck rental can be more cost-effective than other transportation options, especially for companies that frequently transport materials and equipment by rail. Renting a Hi-Rail truck allows companies to avoid the upfront cost of purchasing and maintaining their vehicle, and they only pay for the time they use the truck.

Applications of Hi-Rail Section Trucks

Hi-Rail trucks are utilized in different industries, including

  • Railroad maintenance: Hi-Rail trucks are used to transport workers and equipment to and from worksites, as well as to perform track maintenance tasks such as inspecting and repairing tracks and bridges.
  • Construction: Hi-Rail trucks can be used to transport materials and equipment to and from construction sites, particularly in areas where access is limited or where roads are not yet built.
  • Utility and power line maintenance: Hi-Rail trucks are used to transport workers and equipment to power lines and utility poles for maintenance and repair work.
  • Military: Hi-Rail trucks are used by the military to transport personnel and equipment to and from military bases and training areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hi-Rail section trucks are a useful and versatile transportation option for companies in the rail industry. Their ability to run on both roads and rails, as well as their efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, make them a favorite for many different usages. Hi-Rail truck rental is a convenient and cost-effective way for companies to access the benefits of these specialized vehicles.