Træskinner

Træskinner, also known as wooden rails, are traditional railway track components made primarily from timber. They have historically been used in various forms of transportation infrastructure before the widespread adoption of modern steel and concrete rails. Træskinner were commonly employed in early railway systems, temporary tracks, and narrow-gauge railway lines, particularly in rural or industrial settings.

Constructed from durable hardwoods such as oak, beech, or spruce, træskinner are cut and shaped into elongated beams that serve as the running surface for train wheels. The timber is often treated to resist rot and wear, extending its useful lifespan. The wooden rails are typically laid on sleepers or ties, which are supported by ballast or foundation materials to ensure stability.

While træskinner offer advantages such as ease of installation, repair, and cost-effectiveness in certain contexts, they present limitations including higher maintenance requirements, susceptibility to environmental damage, and lower load-carrying capacity compared to metal rails. As railway technology progressed, træskinner largely were replaced by steel rails, which provided increased durability, smoother rides, and greater capacity.

Today, træskinner are primarily of historical interest or used in certain niche applications such as heritage railways, amusement parks, or temporary track installations. Their use in modern mainstream railway networks has been phased out in favor of more durable and efficient materials, but they remain an important part of railway history and engineering development.