Using a back-to-back gauge for your model railway ensures that the wheels on your rolling stock are spaced correctly...
Cart 0 Product Products (empty)
No products
Free shipping! Shipping
£ 0.00 Total
Product successfully added to your shopping cart
Quantity
Total
There are 0 items in your cart. There is 1 item in your cart.
Total products (tax incl.)
Total shipping (tax excl.) Free shipping!
Total (tax incl.)
Search Tips
Tips categories
Latest Tips
-
How do I use a back to back gauge?Read more -
What is a poly-cap?Read moreA poly-cap is a type of plastic cap often used in model-making kits, especially for assembling figurines or model...
-
What is Graham Farish?Read moreGraham Farish is a name you’re likely to come across if you're interested in British model railways, especially in...
-
When did semaphore signals stop being used in the UK?Read moreSemaphore signals, those distinctive mechanical arms that once graced railway lines across the UK, were largely...
-
What is Kato track?Read moreKato track is a popular choice in the world of model railways, known for its quality, ease of use and versatility. If...
How do catenary systems cope with curved sections of track ?
Catenary systems are used to provide an overhead power supply for electric trains. They consist of a series of wires, known as catenary wires, which are suspended above the tracks and carry the electrical current to power the trains. When it comes to curved sections of track, catenary systems need to be designed and installed in a way that allows for smooth operation and minimal impact on the trains.
To cope with curved sections of track, catenary systems use a combination of flexible wires, tensioning devices, and specialized hardware. Here's how they work:
- Flexible wires: the catenary wires used in the system are designed to be flexible and capable of adapting to the curvature of the track. These wires are typically made of a lightweight and durable material, such as copper or aluminium, which allows them to bend and flex without breaking or losing their shape.
- Tensioning devices: to maintain the proper tension in the catenary wires, tensioning devices are installed at regular intervals along the track. These devices help to keep the wires taut and prevent sagging, which could lead to contact issues with the pantographs on the trains. The tensioning devices can be adjusted to accommodate the curvature of the track and ensure consistent tension across the entire catenary system.
- Specialized hardware: in curved sections of track, additional hardware is used to support the catenary wires and ensure they maintain the correct position. This hardware includes pulleys, brackets, and cantilever arms, which are strategically placed to guide the wires along the curvature of the track. These components help to minimize lateral movement of the wires and ensure they remain in the desired position, allowing the trains to pass smoothly underneath.
It's important to note that the design and installation of catenary systems for curved sections of track requires careful planning and engineering. Factors such as the radius of the curves, train speeds and electrical requirements all need to be taken into consideration to ensure safe and efficient operation.
In summary, catenary systems cope with curved sections of track by using flexible wires, tensioning devices, and specialized hardware. These components work together to allow the catenary wires to adapt to the curvature of the track, maintain proper tension, and provide a reliable power supply for electric trains.
Posted in: Power and control
Click here to receive the tips weekly in your mailbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Related products
Single Track Catenary Mast (10)
Price: £ 10.50Dapol innovative Easi-Fit Catenary masts are an ideal additon to any N Gauge...
Catenary Masts (10)
Price: £ 14.00Dapol innovative Easi-Fit Catenary masts are an ideal additon to any OO Gauge...
Related posts
-
Can a "DCC ready" train be used on analogue?Yes, you can use a DCC ready train on your analogue layout. DCC ready just means that the train has been factory... - Is it difficult to fit a DCC decoder in to a DCC ready engine?In theory, it should be easy as the whole idea of being DCC Ready is to simplify the process. The first time I did...
- What is 7/0.2 wire?7/02 wire is a wire made of 7 strands of 0.2mm wire. Stranded wire has the advantage of being flexible while solid...
- Is an N Gauge controller compatible with OO Gauge?Yes, an N Gauge controller is compatible with OO gauge trains. You may have to change the power clip to the track...
- Is stranded wire better than solid wire?In my experience, stranded wire is preferable over solid wire. Stranded wire is more flexible than solid core wire,...