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  • What is a yard switcher?
    What is a yard switcher?

    A yard switcher, commonly referred to as a shunter in British English, is a type of locomotive specifically designed for shunting operations within railway yards, depots, and industrial sites. Unlike the large, powerful locomotives used for...

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  • What is the leading edge of an airplane wing?
    What is the leading edge of an airplane wing?

    The leading edge of an airplane wing is a crucial component in the design and function of an aircraft. It is the frontmost part of the wing that first makes contact with the airflow as the aircraft moves forward. This part of the wing plays a...

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  • What is the third rail?
    What is the third rail?

    The "third rail" refers to an additional rail that provides electrical power to trains, separate from the two rails that support and guide the train's wheels. This method is commonly used in electric railway systems, particularly in urban and...

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  • What are china clay wagons?
    What are china clay wagons?

    China clay wagons, also known as kaolin wagons, are specialised railway freight vehicles designed primarily for the transportation of china clay. China clay, or kaolin, is a fine white clay that has significant industrial importance, particularly...

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  • What are Heljan?
    What are Heljan?

    Heljan is a Danish company renowned in the model railway community for its high-quality model trains and accessories. Established in the 1950s, Heljan originally focused on manufacturing plastic products. However, in the 1980s, they pivoted...

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  • What is the purpose of buffer stops?
    What is the purpose of buffer stops?

    Buffer stops, also known as buffer stops or buffers in railway terminology, are a critical safety feature in rail transport. They are installed at the end of rail tracks to prevent trains from running off the end of the line. Their primary purpose...

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  • What is bullhead rail?
    What is bullhead rail?

    Bullhead rail is a type of railway rail that was prominently used in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world from the early 19th century until the mid-20th century. Characterised by its distinctive cross-sectional shape, bullhead rail...

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  • What is the HOm scale?
    What is the HOm scale?

    The HOm scale is a popular narrow-gauge modelling scale used by enthusiasts to represent railways that are smaller than the standard gauge. This scale is particularly significant among hobbyists who are interested in capturing the charm and detail...

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  • What are ready-to-run wagons?
    What are ready-to-run wagons?

    AReady to Run (RTR) wagon refers to a model railway wagon that comes fully assembled and decorated straight from the manufacturer. This means that the model railway enthusiast does not need to perform any assembly, painting, or additional...

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  • What were water cranes used for?
    What were water cranes used for?

    In the era of steam locomotives, water cranes, often referred to as water columns or water towers, played a crucial role in the daily operations of the railway network across the United Kingdom. Their primary function was to supply steam engines...

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  • What is a model railway controller?
    What is a model railway controller?

    A model railway controller, often referred to as a controller or power pack, is an essential device used in model railways to control the speed and direction of the trains on the track. In the UK, these controllers are typically designed to cater...

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  • In model railways, what is 2FS?
    In model railways, what is 2FS?

    In model railways, 2FS refers to 2mm Finescale or 2mm Scale Finescale. This is a specific modeling standard and scale used by railway enthusiasts who focus on highly detailed and accurate miniature railway layouts. Why Use 2FS? Modelers who...

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