Patent ID: 6602465
Filing Date: 2003-08-05
Classification: B27K,E01B

Abstract:
A method of preserving the wood near the interface of the adzed surface of a wooden railroad cross-tie and a tie plate during a rail laying or re-laying operation, the cross-tie and tie plate being exposed to moisture during railroad operations, said method comprising:dispensing a gelatinous material comprising a water-soluble fungicide in a binder on the adzed surface, the fungicide leaching from the gelatinous material at a controlled rate when water contacts the gelatinous material, wherein the gelatinous material is biodegradable as the fungicide is leached therefrom; positioning the tie plate and rail on the adzed surface; and driving the spikes through the tie plates into the cross-tie, with the spikes forming spike holes in the cross-ties whereby the fungicide is transported to the interior of the cross-tie through the spike holes by osmotic pressures and cyclical loading and unloading of the rail caused by the passing of a train expediting dissipation of the fungicide into the cross-tie.