What is the weight per meter of 54E1 rail?

Mar 31, 2026

What is the weight per meter of 54E1 rail?

 

The 54E1 rail, also known as UIC54 rail, is a standardized medium-weight rail widely used in metro systems, regional railways, and conventional mainline tracks. Its optimized 54E1 rail profile and precise UIC54 rail dimensions ensure stable load distribution and reliable performance under moderate axle loads.

 

One of the most fundamental parameters in rail selection is the weight per meter, as it directly affects load capacity, transport planning, and overall track design.The standard weight of 54E1 rail is defined by international standards such as EN 13674-1 and is consistent across global railway systems. This ensures interchangeability and compatibility in engineering projects.

 

uic54 rail

 

The 54E1 rail (also known as UIC54) has a nominal weight of 54.77kg/m. Manufactured according to the European Standard EN 13674-1, this flat-bottom rail is used for mainline railway systems, providing an optimal balance of durability and stability.

 

uic54 rail dimensions:

 

uic54 rail dimensions

 

Type of Rail Standard Dimensions (mm) Section S Mass m
H B C D E cm² kg/m
European standard EN 13674-1
54E1 (UIC54) EN 13674 - 1 159,00 140,00 70,00 49,40 16,00 68,77 54,77

 

GNEE RAIL supplies rail 54E1 / UIC54 rail with consistent weight control, precise rolling processes, and strict dimensional tolerances, ensuring each rail meets standard specifications.

 

How Weight Relates to Rail Performance?

 

The weight per meter of a rail is not just a number-it reflects the rail's ability to carry loads and resist deformation. For 54E1 rail, its weight places it in the medium-load category.

 

  • Higher weight → greater stiffness and load capacity

 

  • Moderate weight (54.77 kg/m) → balanced performance and cost efficiency

 

  • Lower weight compared to heavy rails → easier handling and installation

 

  • Directly influences bending resistance and fatigue life

 

54e1 rail

 

This makes rail 54E1 suitable for lines where both performance and cost control are important.GNEE RAIL maintains consistent UIC54 rail profile and weight, ensuring predictable mechanical behavior across the entire rail length.

 

Comparison with Other Rail Types

 

Understanding the 54E1 rail weight kg/m becomes clearer when compared with other common rail profiles used in railway systems.

 

  • UIC54 (54E1): 54.77 kg/m → medium-load applications

 

  • UIC60 (60E1): 60 kg/m → heavy load and high-speed lines

 

Type of Rail Dimensions mm Steel Grade Weight(Kg/m)
Rail height/A Bottom Width/F Head Width/C Web Thickness/t
54E1 (UIC54) 159 140 70 16 R200 / R260 / R260Mn / R300HT 54.77
60E1 (UIC60) 172 150 72 16.5 R200 / R260 / R260Mn / R300HT 60.21

 

  • Light rails : used for lighter-duty or industrial tracks

 

light rail

 

Classification Height(mm) Head (mm) Bottom (mm) Thick(mm) Weight (kg/m)
Light Rail 8 KG/M 65 25 54 7 8.42
9 KG/M 63.5 32.1 63.5 5.9 8.94
12 KG/M 69.85 38.1 69.85 7.54 12.2
15 KG/M 79.37 42.86 79.37 8.33 15.2
18 KG/M 80 40 80 10 18.06
22 KG/M 93.66 50.8 93.66 10.72 22.3
24 KG/M 107 51 90 10.9 24.46
30 KG/M 107.95 60.33 107.95 12.3 30.1

 

  • Crane rails: heavier sections designed for specialized load conditions

 

crane rail

 

Classification Height(mm) Head (mm) Bottom (mm) Thick(mm) Weight (kg/m)
Crane Rail QU 70 120 70 120 28 52.8
QU 80 130 80 130 32 63.69
QU 100 150 100 150 38 88.96
QU 120 170 120 170 44 118.1

 

This comparison highlights that UIC54 rail provides a balance between strength and economic efficiency, making it one of the most widely used rail types globally.GNEE RAIL offers a full range of rail profiles, including UIC54 and UIC60, enabling precise selection based on load requirements and project conditions.

 

FAQ

 

Q1: What is the exact weight per meter of 54E1 rail?


A: The standard weight is 54.77 kg per meter.

 

Q2: Why is it sometimes called 54 kg rail?


A: The name is a rounded value based on its nominal weight classification.

 

Q3: Does weight affect rail performance?


A: Yes, heavier rails generally offer higher load capacity and stiffness.

 

Q4: Can the weight vary between manufacturers?


A: Only within strict tolerance limits defined by international standards.

 

Q5: Does GNEE RAIL ensure accurate rail weight?


A: Yes, weight and dimensions are strictly controlled during production.

 

The weight per meter of 54E1 rail plays a key role in load capacity, transport planning, and installation efficiency. GNEE RAIL supplies UIC54 rail / rail 54E1 with precise weight control, consistent profile geometry, and verified dimensional accuracy, along with optional processing such as cutting and drilling. Combined with optimized packaging and shipping support, rails can be delivered and installed efficiently while maintaining performance requirements. Contact GNEE RAIL to get detailed specifications and practical solutions for your rail project.