What is the maximum freight speed allowed with a 1'3/16" misalignment in tangent track?

The maximum freight speed permitted with a 1'3/16" misalignment in tangent track is established based on engineering guidelines that prioritize safety and operational efficiency. A misalignment of this magnitude can cause increased stresses on the rail and rolling stock, potentially leading to derailments if not accounted for appropriately.

For a misalignment of 1'3/16", the guidance dictates that freight trains typically should not exceed 60 MPH. This threshold strikes a balance between operational efficiency and safety, minimizing the risk of incidents while allowing for relatively high-speed freight movement. The regulations are designed to ensure that the forces acting on the train and infrastructure remain within safe limits.

Other speed options, such as 45 MPH, 70 MPH, or 50 MPH, either fall below or exceed these safety thresholds, making them unsuitable for a level of misalignment like 1'3/16". Therefore, maintaining a maximum speed of 60 MPH is the correct approach when dealing with such track conditions to ensure both the safety of the personnel and the integrity of the rail infrastructure.