Steel Dynamics, Inc. (SDI) has begun commercial production of Standard Strength rails that meet all current AREMA specifications. SDI’s Structural & Rail Division at Columbia City, Ind., produces this rail in lengths up to 240 feet and is capable of producing 300,000 tons of rail per year. The company also announced that its Standard Strength rail has been tested and qualified by the first of the North American Class I railroads that are potential customers. Shipments are expected to begin in the second quarter.

To secure AREMA certification, samples of the rail produced underwent evaluations by independent testing laboratories to certify adherence to the specifications. AREMA (the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association) is the professional organization that sets standards for design, construction and maintenance of America's railroad infrastructure. Evaluations by other Class I railroads are under way and are expected to result in additional approvals in the near future.