Tsamouris, the Fastener Specialists©
In June 2016, a broken bolt sent a Union Pacific train carrying volatile crude oil hurtling off the tracks in the
Columbia River Gorge, spilling 42,000 gallons (158,987 liters) and forcing the evacuation of the nearby town
of Mosier, Oregon, United States. The accident was caused by at least one broken bolt holding the rail in
place, according to a report filed by the company with the Federal Railroad Administration.
The broken bolt, which is unique to curved sections of track, failed despite the train traveling at 26 mph (42
km/h) in a 30 mph (48 km/h) zone. As a result of the accident, Union Pacific checked similar bolts in curved
sections of its 32,000 mi (51,499 km) of track across 23 states. The company also replaced bolts in the
derailment area with heavier duty ones and increased inspections in the Columbia River Gorge from once
every 18 months to four times a year.
The derailment, which caused no injuries, raised concerns about the risks associated with transporting
crude oil by rail.
At Tsamouris, we understand the critical role that quality fasteners play in ensuring the safety and reliability
of transportation infrastructure.