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Tracks

Tracks

How to choose, lay and maintain tracks.

  • What is a wye junction in railways?
    What is a wye junction in railways?

    A wye junction (sometimes called a wye or Y-track) on a model railway refers to a triangular junction where two diverging tracks come together again into one track. It allows a train or locomotive to reverse direction without the need for a...

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  • Tips for smooth model railway track transitions
    Tips for smooth model railway track transitions

    As any seasoned model railway enthusiast knows, achieving seamless track transitions is crucial for ensuring a realistic and reliable running experience on your layout. Nothing spoils the immersive illusion more than clunky track joints or...

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  • What is the best size for a point on my railway layout?
    What is the best size for a point on my railway layout?

    When choosing the best size for a point (switch) on a UK model railway layout, the key considerations are:Scale of your layout: In OO gauge, the most common point sizes are 1st, 2nd, and 3rd radius. In N gauge, 1st and 2nd radius points are...

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  • Is finescale track better than standard track?
    Is finescale track better than standard track?

    When evaluating whether finescale or standard track is the better option for your model railway pursuits, there are several key considerations to make. Standard track, adhering to long-established industry norms and dimensions set forth by the...

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  • What is EM gauge?
    What is EM gauge?

    The EM gauge refers to a specific track gauge that falls between the standard OO gauge and P4 standards. The term "EM" stands for "Eighteen Millimetre," denoting the distance between the inner edges of the rail heads. The EM gauge is set at...

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  • When were concrete sleepers first used on British railways?
    When were concrete sleepers first used on British railways?

    Concrete sleepers were introduced to British railways as part of an effort to find more durable and longer-lasting alternatives to wooden sleepers, which were prone to decay and required regular maintenance. The Southern Railway produced...

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  • What are point levers?
    What are point levers?

    Point levers, integral components in railway infrastructure, facilitate the safe and efficient movement of trains between different tracks. On real life railways, these mechanical devices are used to manually change the alignment of a set of...

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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 purpose of ballast?
    What is the purpose of ballast?

    Ballast is an essential component in railway construction, serving several crucial functions in maintaining the integrity and performance of a railway track. In essence, it consists of crushed stone or similar granular material, typically spread...

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  • What is a sector plate?
    What is a sector plate?

    A sector plate is a specialised type of turntable commonly used in railway modelling, to allow trains or rolling stock to change direction or be diverted onto different tracks within a compact space. Unlike a traditional turntable, which rotates...

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  • What are Tracksetta templates?
    What are Tracksetta templates?

    Tracksetta templates are essential tools for ensuring that your model railway track is laid accurately and consistently. Whether you're a seasoned modeller or just starting out, these templates make the often tricky task of laying curves and...

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  • What is Peco Streamline?
    What is Peco Streamline?

    Peco Streamline is a range of model railway track that many modellers in the UK turn to when they want to take their layout to the next level. If you're new to the hobby, you’ve probably come across Hornby track, which is great for starting out...

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