Quick answer
Freight-train speed depends on track class, railroad rules, route conditions, signals, train type and temporary restrictions. In the U.S., federal track standards set maximum allowable speeds by track class.
Track class sets an upper limit
Under FRA track standards, Class 3 track permits freight speeds up to 40 mph, Class 4 up to 60 mph and Class 5 up to 80 mph. A railroad may impose lower operating speeds.
Maximum is not average
A train may spend substantial time below the maximum because of grades, curves, meets, signals, yards, congestion or slow orders.
Different trains have different priorities
Time-sensitive intermodal trains may be scheduled differently from heavy bulk trains, but every movement remains subject to route and operating restrictions.
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