Recommended Product Categories
Find the right chemistry for your application. Explore the product categories commonly used in railroad and transportation operations to get started. Questions? Need a custom formulation?
De-Icers
Prevent ice buildup on switches, rails, and exposed mechanical systems. Includes non-corrosive, non-conductive formulations safe for rail infrastructure.
Switch Lubricants
Lubricate manual and powered switches, slide plates, and couplers in rail systems. Cling to surfaces in rain, snow, and high-moisture environments.
Paint & Coating Removers
Remove cured coatings, adhesives, or buildup from wheels, jigs, or equipment. Includes options for maintenance and heavy-duty cleaning cycles.
Industrial Cleaners & Degreasers
Remove grease, brake dust, oils, and soils from railcars, wheels, and maintenance equipment. Includes water-based and solvent-based options.
Rust & Surface Protection
Protect exposed metal on railcars, track components, and storage assets. Includes dry film and oil-based rust inhibitors for in-field or shop use.
Common Problems We Solve
Below are some of the most common issues faced in railroad and transportation operations — along with solutions that align with our product categories and chemistries.
❌ Ice Buildup on Switches and Rails
Frozen switches delay operations and compromise rail system safety.
✅ De-Icers
Prevent ice formation with non-conductive, non-corrosive formulas that cling to rail hardware.
❌ Rail Switches Fail to Move Smoothly
Rust, moisture, or wear cause sticking or sluggish performance in switch assemblies.
✅ Switch Lubricants
Moisture-resistant synthetics reduce friction and stay in place under harsh weather.
❌ Rust or Scale on Railcar Parts and Hardware
Corrosion builds up on wheels, couplers, and structural components during service or storage.
✅ Rust & Scale Removers
Chemistries designed to dissolve oxidation and prepare metal surfaces for coating or reassembly.
❌ Heavy Soil and Grease on Maintenance Equipment
Brake dust, grease, and oil accumulate on railcars, shop tools, and wheel assemblies.
✅ Industrial Cleaners & Degreasers
Water- and solvent-based cleaners remove buildup from floors, parts, and rolling stock.
❌ Cured Coating or Adhesive Buildup on Tools
Paint or polymer buildup interferes with railcar work or part handling.
✅ Paint & Coating Removers
Break down dried coatings and adhesives from jigs, fixtures, and maintenance surfaces.
PICO Customers in Railroad & Transportation
Companies across railroad and transportation industries trust PICO to deliver performance, reliability, and process-friendly chemical solutions. Here are a few trusted manufacturers who rely on our workhorse products and expertise.
FAQs
Whether you’re maintaining rail switches, cleaning rolling stock, or protecting exposed steel, here are answers to common questions from railroad and transportation maintenance teams.
Applications & Compatibility
Can PICO de-icers be used on live track switches and signal areas?
Yes. PICO de-icers are non-conductive, non-corrosive, and safe for use on manual and powered switches in active rail environments.
Are switch lubricants safe for use in cold or wet conditions?
Yes. Switch lubricants are formulated to cling to vertical and inclined surfaces and remain effective in rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.
Do rust removers damage painted or coated surfaces?
Rust & scale removers are designed for bare metal. Care should be taken to avoid contact with painted or delicate finishes unless tested first.
Regulatory & Compliance
Are your de-icers and cleaners environmentally safe?
Yes. Many PICO formulations used in rail applications are biodegradable, low-VOC, and non-hazardous for safer use in outdoor or field environments.
Do rust preventives meet transportation safety or air quality standards?
Yes. Several dry film and oil-based options are suitable for in-plant or outdoor use and comply with relevant indoor air and handling guidelines.
Customization & Supply
Can PICO recommend products based on railcar or switch type?
Yes. PICO can help select or recommend products suited for specific applications, such as rolling stock, couplers, switch plates, or shop maintenance.
What packaging sizes are available?
Most rail-related products are available in pails, drums, and totes. Some are also available in sprayable or field-ready packaging.
