So building a test track I noticed grades of 3/100 looked pretty steep almost doesn’t look real to me. Given enough room the gradients would be less. I also noticed the steam 4-8-2 would loose traction on the initial incline. The AWD EMDs 6 axles looked great, no traction lose or herky jerky toddering. The truck tolerance in the EMDs is more applicable to initial incline than the stiffer frame of the steamer. So what I’m after is less grade yes. But in track planning what is a good gradient for real world transition on inclines. I’m thinking no more that 2/100. And if it is cool to bend track upward to get the transition we’ll say in the middle section somewhere are to avoid hingy joiner spots. G.
In highway engineering, the desired grade is 1.6/100. I think railroads are the same, or slightly less.
Yes I agree with that. In my post I quoted 2/100 I was thinking even that too steep.
Depends on what you are attempting to do. In the real world, excluding incline railroads, the typical maximum gradient was 8% as seen in logging railroads and typically plied by Shay’s. The typical gradient for Big Boy hauls was less than 1%. I assume you are trying to replicate these real world numbers into your model railroad layout. I see two constraints, running out of space with a 1% grade, or having insufficient traction with an 8% grade.
Scaling the model railroad locomotive to size is one thing, scaling it for weight is another. Without the scale weight, there will be insufficient tractive effort available.
Looking to run long freight through canyon runs .I’m trying to hit less than 2/100 on long haul to summit. Still doing the math on step inclines to reach desires plato heights and at press time not sure what that is. But if I do runs of 2/100 then flatten out then another increase equalant. I’ve gained elevation while keeping the gradient equal.
Btw interesting point on scale weight ratio …very cool
Are you talking about a 2% constant gradient, or a 2% average gradient?
BTW a 2% grade equals a 1/4” rise per 12” of track
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Not withstanding a single track line. I’m looking to keep the constraints with 2/100 throughout. So step changes will be appropriate. So scale weight and gravity remain constant for load/speed ratio.
And yes your right the degree of slope is constant not withstanding how many steps it takes to get there.
I suppose you are free to design your layout with whatever grades work for you. Doesn’t sound like the track would need much bending for a 2% grade. Are you using slip joints for your track?
That thought just crossed my mind. Due to voltage drops across joiners. The thinking I will use joiners first for the rough in and then go back through and remove joiners and solder connector ends …while running the feeder lines at the same spot.
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