Petroczi National Rail Services

02/08/2026

Rail defects rarely appear overnight.

This rail end presents with an advanced rail end batter that has progressed into a Vertical Split Head (VSH).

While not considered an in-service rail failure, the defect is beyond practical repair. Welding is no longer a viable option, and the rail requires close, routine monitoring until it can be safely replaced.

This is why early identification and timely intervention matter — rail degrades predictably over time, and small defects become costly when left unaddressed.

02/03/2026

This project in Quebec was a big milestone for us.

We engineered and installed a custom No. 6 runaround turnout to match existing curvature and integrate directly through a warehouse to support boxcar unloading and facilitate grain transloading.

The margin for error was slim, and it tested every part of the process — planning, geometry, sequencing, and ex*****on.

That experience helped shape our new logo.

It represents how we approach our work: think it through, build it once, and leave something we’re proud to stand behind.

01/31/2026

01/30/2026

Winter brings unique operational challenges to the railroad and, most importantly, to the people who keep it moving.

Beyond frigid sub-zero temperatures, snow and ice significantly increase the risk of service disruptions and derailments if not properly managed.

Key areas that require consistent winter maintenance include:

- Crossing flangeways

- Turnout stock rails, switch points and frogs

- Derails

- Rail access gates

Staying ahead of winter maintenance helps prevent service interruptions, costly derailments — and more importantly — protects people and equipment.

Preparation isn’t optional in winter railroading. It’s critical.

06/13/2025

Viking Seax with Dragon Scale Twist for the handle.

06/08/2025

Brushing off the Cannon!

05/10/2025

Made to order.
Individually crafted

12/24/2024

As we close out the 2024 season, it’s a moment to reflect.

Reflect on our achievements, the collaborations we've fostered, and the strong partnerships we've built.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our clients and suppliers for their trust and collaboration. Your support has made this year’s successes possible.

Wishing you and your families a joyful and restful holiday season.

Merry Christmas!

11/04/2024

Busy weekend for our crew!

Our client now has transition ties to evenly transfer the weight of their rail cars to their direct fixation.

Contaminated mud pumping ballast was excavated 12" below the base of rail with a slope cut towards the ditch. The bottom is layered in woven geotextile and non woven geotexile was used along the sides to promote the drainage to bleed off and to stave off further contamination.

The transition ties consit of (3) 9', (3) 10' & (3) 11' switch ties which are tamped 100% as per track standards.

Our hydraulic spiker is down, so every spike was hand driven averaging 9 seconds/spike, (4) spikes / 14" plate.

The only other recommendation we will be providing our client is to box anchor 200' of their hopper in both directions.

This was the first job we had my sister join us as we were down a man last minute.

We also had Emmett join us for his first railroad construction job. :)

Thank you Leah and the team for your help this weekend!

Nick Kempert Emmett Liddell Leah Petroczi

10/28/2024

Small repair today before the frost hits with the heavier work planned for spring.

10/28/2024

Thanks for being a top engager and making it on to my weekly engagement list! 🎉 Joe Dockrill, Emmett Liddell, Marc LeBlanc

Truly appreciate your support!