Yard Limit Speed

[Sawtooth500]

Is there a standard yard limit speed, or does it vary from yard to yard? Also, is there any standard on when a yard “begins” or “ends”? Or even what exactly constitutes a yard?

[tree68]

From NORAC (8th Edition)

93. Movement within Yard Limits

Yard limits are designated by Timetable and indicated by yard limit signs.

Within yard limits, movements may be made on a main track by verbal permission of the Dispatcher (or Operator when authorized by the Dispatcher).

The leading end of movement within yard limits must operate at Restricted Speed, with the following exceptions:

Within yard limits, movements against the current of traffic must not be made without permission of the Dispatcher, who must first ensure that no opposing movements have been authorized.

“Stretching” the yard limits a bit may allow an industry to be served without requiring the crew to get a warrant/EC-1/Form D.

[quote]

80. Movement at Restricted Speed

[jeffhergert]

You don’t have to have a yard to have Yard Limits. Yard Limits only involve the main track, and allow a train or engine to use the main track with no other main track authority or flag protection.

Some branch lines are, or have been operated under Yard Limits. Usually those are going to be lines that have only one train or engine operating at any one time.

Jeff

[Dutchrailnut]

yards and yard limits have nothing in common.

Yard limits is a territory where switching limits are extended onto a mainline.

for purpose of switching without trainorders/form D , yard limits can be occupied by a train on simple verbal permission by a Dispatcher or operator.

A switching move can take as many in and outs but must be clear 5 minutes prior to next scheduled train.

speeds under yard limit moves are always restricted speed.

[nbrodar]

Are we talking Yard Limits per Rule 93…

Which is a portion of main track specified in the Time Table and designated by Yard Limit signs, in which movements may be made by signal indication or verbal permission of the Dispatcher, without the need for train orders. Movements within Yard Limits will be made at Restricted Speed unless Yard Limits are entered on a signal more favorable then Approach, then Time Table speed governs.

Note Rule 93 Yard Limits have absolutely nothing to do with a yard, and apply to main track only.

Are we talking Switching Limits as defined by a labor agreement…

The mileposts that encompass a particular jobs operating limits. Operation outside of the these limits entitles the crew to a penalty payment.

Are we talking Terminal Limits as defined by Time Table/Special Instructions…

The mileposts specified as ABC Terminal, may include one or more yards, industrial track, plus main track. Outside of the yard proper, Time Table speed governs.

Or the Yard proper…

A collection of auxiliary tracks for the sorting, storage, and repair of railcars and other purposes. Movements with a yard will be made at Yard Speed (Restricting Speed, not exceeding 10 MPH). Again the yard boundaries are defined in the Time Table by milepost.

Nick