I have a question about the prototypical operation of double crossovers. Do they throw each turn out one at a time, or do they throw them in pairs, or are all 4 thrown at once?
99% of prototype “double crossovers” are not like model double crossovers, they are 4 switches with no crossing. It is very, very rare to find a prototype example on a “double crossover” where there are 4 switches with a diamond in the middle. The only prototype examples I have seen are in passenger terminals or in other large yards. I have never seen a prototype example on a main line.
Having said that, it depends on how the switches are operated. If thay are hand operated, manually switches where the crew operates them, then they are lined one at a time for just the move required. If they are powered then they in most cases they are lined in pairs with the other pair remaining normal (straightaway move).
Dave H.
double crossovers are used where it will save some space instead of two single crossovers. as was previously stated they could be operated by handthrows or by switch machines from a tower. if controlled from a tower they would only throw the switch pair that was needed for the route.the other pair would be mechanicaly and electrically locked in their normal position and not able to be thrown. also the circuits that give a clear signal pass through switch repeater relays and will not allow all four switches to be reverse at the same time.
Thanks for the input, as I am going to use these on a 4’ module I am under severe space limitations I guess this main will have a double crossover if I am going to get done what I need to get done.