05 Standards planning - curve radius, track separation and maximum gradient for n-gauge

Рет қаралды 8,547

4 жыл бұрын

Checking the various standards that I have assumed in planning my n-gauge layout:
* Maximum gradient for n-gauge
* Curve radius
* Track separation
My model railway layout will be built from Peco code 55 n gauge track.
The locos featured are:
* Graham Farish 372-578 Class 6P Rebuilt Royal Scot LMS 6100
* Graham Farish 372-180 8p Duchess of Sutherland 6233 LMS in Crimson Lake with a double chimney
I am testing with a digitrax dcs150 controller as well as a Hornby R912 forward reverse unit for dc control.
All the track used in this video is Peco SL-300F code-55 flexible track with wooden sleepers.

Пікірлер: 20

@thegrowler-blackwoodngauge 3 жыл бұрын

Nice experiment with the gradient. One thing to remember is it's always easier if the gradient is on a straight - on a helix it will be on a curve - so more difficult for locos to pull. Diesels are more capable of using helixes with a steeper incline than steam locos. I'm currently prepping for two helixes on my own layout to give new storage roads under the back baseboard so that was all very useful. Cheers Euan

@naivegauge 3 жыл бұрын

Indeed. I am worried about my helix. I have reviewed my layout plan and reduced the gradient of the helix (at the expense of less headroom). But ultimately, the only way I will know what can climb the helix is to build it and try. I suppose the lessons learned will inform the design on the next layout I build probably in about 10 years time!!!

@Rule1ModelRailways 3 жыл бұрын

Very clever video that one, enjoyed that

@naivegauge 3 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. I think if I made it now, the filming / editing would be better. But we all have to start somewhere.

@piccadillymodelrailways 4 жыл бұрын

Hi some interesting tests there. May I suggest the largest flattest curves you can sensibly get away with. I know you seem keen on 1st radius curves, but it is not advisable, as some locos won’t cope with sharp curves. I would try to use a minimum of 3rd radius curves then that way you can guarantee trains will cope much better. The L shaped designs you have previously come up with look great and will provide great running interest, but with larger curves especially at the ends. Really hoping that’s helpful.

@naivegauge 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this feedback, I really appreciate it. I am not keen to use tight curves, but what I am keen on is having lots of straight / sweeping track in the scenic section. But maximising this means being able to change the direction of the track in as short a space as possible once it is hidden. The reason I am testing minimum radius stuff is I want to know what the limits are. Since I have never done n-gauge before I need to get a feel for what is possible. So far the two locos I have run fine around the 9 inch bends.

@andrewcummins-15thstreetya80 4 жыл бұрын

Nice experiments, for inclines and declines use the dcc concepts power base system will allow the locos achieve the 2 to 3 percent gradient with more efficiently. Adding mass to a loco has disavantages and adds additional stress to the motor and drive system.

@naivegauge 4 жыл бұрын

I have heard about the power base system and was already curious. I think I find heard Jenny Kirk talking about it. However there is still a significant difference between my two locos, so I want to get to the bottom of why one is so rubbish. I am planning to try to change the traction tyres and also get a replacement axle so I can fit extra traction tyres. If that does not work, then I will just put it down to tender-drive being a bad idea.

@poopjeans1135 3 жыл бұрын

Interesting, cause the majority of videos I've seen on model RR layouts all emphasize proper scale weighting of the cars and loco. For example, adding mass to the rolling stock makes the cars roll better when at scale weight AND, it also stops the worm effect when you are running longer trains. Increasing the weight of the loco may slightly increase strain on the drivetrain, however it will also increase your locos tractive effort.

@Hal-Zuzzu_Model_Railway 3 жыл бұрын

Some short wagons are more difficult to get around a bend than a full-length coach. I have 2 models of these - I had to modify one of the models!

@naivegauge 3 жыл бұрын

What modifications do you make?

@Hal-Zuzzu_Model_Railway 3 жыл бұрын

@@naivegauge Basically the long ones are limited by how much the bogie can turn on its axis. If you look close you will see what is stopping it on the undercarriage. I got me a file and ground away some material to allow the bogie to turn a bit more and in turn, allow the coach/wagon to go around sharper/tighter curves.