N Gauge Model Railway Layout Working Traffic Lights and measuring scale speed Elvenhome EP 142

In this video of my N Gauge Model Railway layout Elvenhome, I show the working traffic lights that now control the traffic around the gasworks. I've also completed the installation of street lights along by the church school. A building not seen on the layout for a while makes a return down by the canal. I also show a website that I use to help me assess scale speed.

Blocksignalling
www. blocksignalling.co.uk

Scale speed website
https://www.entwinesolutions.co.uk/scalespeed/

N Gauge Models
https://www.ngaugemodels.com

MMR Models
https://www.mmrmodels.co.uk/n-gauge-kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a train scale?

A train scale can be used to measure and calculate the weight of trains. It is essential to ensure that trains are loaded safely and in compliance with the legal regulations. Railroad scales are an essential tool for transportation companies to ensure safety, reliability, and the smooth operation of their rolling stock.

You can find a variety of sizes for train scales, depending on the weight of the freight cars and locomotives. They are usually constructed from steel plates positioned over a concrete pad or foundation, with reinforced metal cross-bracing used to support the plates. Load cell sensors are used to measure the pressure on each plate caused by the passing railcars.

The sensors' readings are sent to a computerized device that calculates either the total weight of each carriage or the whole train. This allows railway carriers keep track the total weight of their rolling stocks, and permits them adhere to any applicable regulations regarding maximum allowable gross weights.

Railroad operators also have access to other vital data, such as axle loads. This allows them to maximize their equipment’s haulage capacity and minimize wear on tracks, bridges and tunnels.

How do you store HO models trains?

Storing HO model train trains is an important aspect of maintaining your collection. Your trains will be protected from dirt, dust and other contaminants that can dull their finish or corrode their metal components.

First, you need to make sure that you have a safe place to store your trains.

Second, each set of model trains should be kept in its individual box or bag. This helps to keep the pieces organized and prevents them from getting mixed up. It makes it easier to display them in the future.

Third, ensure that you have all the necessary materials to properly secure and insulate model trains. For example, bubble wrap and foam will protect models from shock when moving around. To polish surfaces, towels and tissue paper are good options. Finally storage boxes made specifically for model railways can be used for neatly organizing cars or accessories.

Fourth, it is worth adding a label for quick identification of multiple models placed on display shelves and tables. This will allow you to save considerable time than just grouping cars according to type or size.

Remember to pay attention to not only what goes into maintenance, but also what comes out. Vacuuming regularly around model train tracks and rails can help keep dust away from the motors and related wiring, reducing the chance of spark-creating scenarios and ensuring a low cost-per-se.

Which scale model railway is the most popular?

The most suitable scale for your model train depends on many factors, including budget, space availability, and level of detail desired. Ho scale (1:87) is one of the most common scales used and is usually recommended for beginners as it offers great value and performance as well as a wide range of railroads and additional accessories. This is one of the smallest scales available, thus making it suitable for small spaces or layouts. N scale (1.160) is the best scale to create large designs in small spaces. However, it has less detail than other scales. G scale (1.22.5) is for those looking for an outdoor model train that can be run all year. The OO gauge (4mm-1 ft) scale is the largest available. It provides enough detail for experienced hobbyists, but it's still simple to use for beginners. Lastly, Z Scale (1:220) provides great realism in its tiny size, although it may require more careful handling due to its delicate parts.

Overall, each model train scale has different qualities that suit various preferences and needs; so it's important to consider all factors before deciding which one best suits your needs.

Is model trains a good hobby?

Model trains have been around since the 1960s and have gained popularity in recent years. Model trains are a fascinating hobby that is enjoyable for all ages, including seniors and adults.

A model train is a miniature replica of a working railroad system, incorporating the same complexity of design and engineering aspects as the real thing. Model train enthusiasts have the ability to create realistic layouts featuring historical or fictional scenes. And unlike many other hobbies, model railroading does not require large amounts of time or money to get started.

Model trains allow you to be creative and make something that you are proud of. You can learn more about circuitry, mechanics, physics, geography, painting, engineering, and much more while producing stunning visuals that will be admired by fellow modelers on show days. This may also lead to forming new friendships through clubs or groups focused on this specific activity over the internet or at special venues.

Another benefit of model trains are their multifaceted nature. You can create intricate layouts that include scenic beauty and sophisticated automation, modify existing engines, work on refurbishing projects, and take part in model challenges and competitions.

A hobby like setting up a model train can provide you with both artistic satisfaction and skilled challenges. This will reward you with many happy memories that will last a lifetime.

What is a small model train?

The HO scale model train is the most popular. This type of model train was created in 1930s Germany and is the most popular choice for avid train enthusiasts. It measures 1/8th of the actual size. It is ideal for collectors who are interested in displaying their rolling stock in great detail.

Another popular option for HO and OO scales is the OO gauge. It has slightly smaller tracks than the HO. The OO (or "2-foot") gauge is a scale that offers a realistic size and proportion at 1/76th of real-life.

There are three options available for those looking for an even smaller layout: the N Scale (1/148th actual-life size), Z Scale (12/20th) and T Scale (1/450th actual-life-size). These scales all make use of narrow gauge tracks which combine beauty and portability in one package. This is ideal when you want to show a scene without having to have a lot of space.

But where does the power come from for the motors?

The primary source for power for motors is electricity. An electromagnet that causes rotation in the motor through a force exerted on the armature, is powered with electricity. Motors are powered by either direct current or alternating power (AC). DC motors are powered using a battery. AC motors use rectifiers, inverters, and transformers to convert AC into DC, regulate it, and create torque.

Solar energy, wind power, and hydropower are all options for motors. Solar cells generate electricity, which can be used for direct power of the motor. In certain cases solar panels may heat up any liquids present in the system, which turns into steam and creates work from steam power. Wind turbines produce electricity by generating electricity from blades that move with the wind and converting kinetic energy to mechanical energy. Similar processes occur in hydroelectric plant via water flowing through waterwheels and turbines. This water can then power motors electrically, or mechanically.

There are also combustion engines, which rely on the combustion and production of fuel molecules to produce electricity. This allows the motor to turn by driving an electric current through the coil. Heavy machinery, such as trucks, ships and other heavy machines, is mainly powered by combustion engines.

Statistics

• Bachmann BT-00642 HO Scale Thomas Train Set100%agree - Entertaining$118.34 (ebay.com)
• Electric HO Scale Train Set - Black/Red100%agree - Durable$132.99 New$75.00 Used Bachmann 00825 (ebay.com)
• But according to Paul Saffo, mid-20th-century adults, and children viewed trains of all sizes very differently from their turn-of-the-century counterparts. (collectorsweekly.com)
• According to a “ Wall Street Journal ” article published just last year, the average age of the National Model Railroad Association's 19,000 or so members is 64, up alarmingly from 39 in the mid-1970s. (collectorsweekly.com)

External Links

blog.railwaymuseum.org.uk

• National Railway Museum blog: Model students make record for the oldest model railway in existence - National Railway Museum blog

themodelrailwayclub.org

• Homepage - The Model Railway Club

hmrs.org.uk

• HMRS home page

How To

How to install sound effects and lighting on your model train layout

It takes some planning and the right equipment to install lighting and sound effects in your model train layout. To create the desired experience for your viewers, you will need to plan and decide which components are required for your lighting and sound system. A decoder is an electrical component that allows you to control the lights and sounds digitally.

A basic knowledge of circuits is important as wiring multiple parts correctly can prove difficult at first. Opting for LED lights rather than incandescent lights may help reduce power usage if you're running multiple locomotive. After wiring is completed, make sure all power outlets are off before programming lighting or sound sets.

A positive terminal should be connected with the positive current, and the negative terminals connected with the negative current. This method, known as direct current (DC) wiring; it will allow a two-way connection within the railway system. You should not mix positive and negative signals.

Next, find a transformer that meets your needs in terms of voltage and amperage. This will depend on the number of LEDs you are using as well as additional items like switches/detectors and motors. It is possible to install multiple circuits depending upon the size and complexity required for running multiple models on different tracks simultaneously.

Make sure to turn on power and test each component before connecting the devices together using cables or cartridges designed for specific set-ups, such as Kato track system. Vehicles are powered directly by the track surface rather than metal rails in traditional systems that use analog controllers. As always double check polarity before beginning programming mode! Happy creating!