Speed limits

[RayG8]

What are the appropriate speeds for trains going through #6 and #8 turnouts, also what is the speed limit within in yard limits? I know you need to be able to stop in a certain distance but since this is modeling I have been using 10mph.

[7j43k]

You multiply the frog number by two, generally.

So, #6 would be 12 MPH and #8 16 MPH.

For yards, it looks like locomotives must be operated at "restricted speed".  Meaning you have to be able to stop within half as far as you can see.  But, above that, it looks like 15-20 MPH.  For example, you might be able to see 3 miles.  You're still maxed out around 15-20.

 

Ed

 

[dehusman]

RayG8

What are the appropriate speeds for trains going through #6 and #8 turnouts, also what is the speed limit within in yard limits? I know you need to be able to stop in a certain distance but since this is modeling I have been using 10mph.

 

Model #6 and #8 or prototype #6 and #8?

 

Real railroads would have a 5-10 mph speed restriction on that tight of a turnout.

 

Yard limits speed depends on the train, the era, signal system etc.

 

Yard limits ONLY apply to the main track through the yard.  Yard limits does NOT apply to any of the yard tracks itself.

 

Pre 1980's :  First class trains could operate at track speed.  If the track was good for 79 mph, they could go 79 mph.  All other trains could operate at a speed that would allow them to stop short of train, obstruction and switch not properly lined.  In many cases there was not a max speed.  If there was it was in the 15-20 mph range.  In many cases, if there was a block signal system on the main track, the rules allowed all trains to operate at the maximum allowed speed if they had a signal better than approach.

 

Post 1980's : Trains could operate at a speed that would allow them to stop within half the range of vision of train, obstruction and switch not properly lined.   In most cases the max speed is in the 15-20 mph range.  In many cases, if there was a block signal system on the main track, the rules allowed all trains to operate at the maximum allowed speed if they had a signal better than approach.