Finalizing layout & power blocks - would appreciate some feedback.

[Birds]

I would appreciate the thoughts and insights of more experienced railroaders.

I am finalizing my layout design and am at the point of figuring out the isolated power blocks and how to power them.

I was thinking that four isolated blocks made sense, and was planning on using one throttle/power source for each block so that speed could be controlled independently for each block.

At this point I have two engines that are conventional. I plan on running trains in conventional mode. I have one KW transformer, which will power two blocks, so I know I will need more transformers.


Click to enlarge picture

Block "A" is the passenger main line. It is goes up a grade at the top. Stays elevated on the right side, crosses over block "D", and then begins to descend into that inner loop.

Because block "A" has an up and down grade, I know that voltage would need to be regulated going up and down the grade. Would it make sense to break block "A" into three isolated blocks – the flats (three), the uphill grade, and the downhill grade?

If you all have any thoughts or insights as to a better way to set this up, I would appreciate hearing them.

Thanks,
Birds

[Big_Boy_4005]

Your block diagram seems perfectly logical, but unless you will be running a lot of trains at the same time, you really don't need more transformers. What you will need is some electrical switches to route the power. Your plan is really not conducive to running more than one train at a time, since it is a single track loop with two sidings.

Simple SPST switches will allow you to turn power off to the paths that you aren't using. All you really need is one handle of the KW to run this plan. SPDT switches would allow you to use both handles, and select which one powers a given block, but the plan really doesn't call for that.

[Anonymous]

On 21 Dec 2005 I posted a description of using SPDT switches made by Atlas to control my old layout. They're inexpensive, w 3 or 4 switches on a 3x3 plastic module. They also can be ganged for more blocks and for more throttles, if you have that many hands. Each switch has 3 positions: no power or from 1 of 2 throttles, into a single block. One module will cover your 4 blocks. Take a look at one in a local hobby shop, you'll probably find it w the HO stuff if you don't see it elsewhere.
As Elliot points out, you're going to have a lot of trains on the sidings waiting for that one mainline.
You might consider redesigning the layout to provide more closed loops independent of each other. Then you can let a couple of trains run continuously while you do other things: like run operating cars, accessories, a switch yard, etc. The loops can have multiple blocks enabling you to have alternative sets of closed loops.
There is a drawback to powering each block with a separate throttle. Somebody else pointed out recently that the different voltages affect the motor when the two rollers straddle the blocks.

[Anonymous]

Run the power from 1 KW handle to a terminal strip. Then a wire from the strip to each switch you use and then a wire from the switch to the block. I use simple knife switches Do this for all switches. This just controls power to each block, allowing power in or not. It allows you to park trains while running another one. You could just add another outside loop around the other track and use the other KW handle for a separate train. As for the grades, stay with the throttle handle. You don't want a runaway!

[Birds]

Thanks for the replies.

I am familiar with the Atlas switches, and do have some SPST mini-toggles. I wasn't sure if applying and cutting power to the tracks using toggles was the best thing for engines.

The comments regarding trains having to wait on the sidings and suggesting a complete second loop were appreciated.

Here's the modification.



I still have some room to add a siding to loop "B", and have room to expand the switch yard as more switches are aquired.

[Big_Boy_4005]

The switches won't hurt the engines, but turning off the power to any track will cause the e-unit to cycle, unless you lock it. The new track plan is now ready for the 2 throtles of your KW. Add a siding to each loop, and let the fun begin.[:)]

[Anonymous]

If you are worried about turning on/off switches, turn the throttle down first to stop the engine. Reconfigure the block switches and then put power to them with the throttle.