I noticed on an NJT Bulliten order that all automatic signals between Denville and Baker (Morristown) have been elminated and replaced with a signal on each track in each direction which indicates a "clear block to the next interlocking". In this case there is almost 7 miles between interlockings. Does this mean no trains can follow or run until a train has cleared the interlockings ( which could mean up to ten minute waits)? OR is there PTC control so trains can follow at speed? Loss of the half to 3/4 mile blocks to me would indicate a slowing of trains and service not improvement? What don't I know?
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You can do cab signal without wayside and have trains following trains, but if this is not cab signal territory, then NJT has just made that one, long block. That "clear block to next interlocking" sounds suspiciously like the latter. I would think you could handle 3 or 4 trains an hour with that spacing. How many to they run during rush hour?
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That's what I'm trying to figure out...I think there is cab signaling now, but not sure. With automatic blocks I think you could do up to 15 trains an hour (five minute intervals?) but not sure what now. If no cab signals, no floating blocks, then I would think a train would have to wait until the one ahead clears the block then proceed at restricted speed the 7 miles, maybe get 4 trains through in an hour...hey, man, ya got a traffic jam! So I think perhaps PTC, cab signals,and/or floating blocks.But want to find out before I assume the worst.
Henry, what you are describing sounds like an implementation of NORAC Rule 562, "Movements in territory where cab signals are used without fixed automatic block signals."
Rule 280a, whose aspect is a "C light", name is "Clear TO Next Interlocking", and indication is "Trains with inoperative cab signals, automatic train stop or speed control must proceed on fixed signal indication,(and cab signal indication, if operable) not exceeding 79 MPH. Trains with inoperative cab signals must approach the next home signal prepared to stop, unless Approach Normal (Rule 280b) is displayed on a distant signal prior to the home signal."
For more on NORAC see http://thebecketts.com/images/NORAC%208th%20Edition%20NJT.pdf
It is a couple of versions old but still good info.
That's what I suspect...it is cab signal territory so there is protection and ability to run traffic.
Been told elsewhere that this is cab signal, bi directional territory with the final wireing and revamping having taken place witht he removal of wayside signal system...in fact both tracks are reversable but wired signal system was directional only...this clears up the system to operational as designed.
Yes, rule 562 signaling was just cut in between DENVILLE and BAKER. All automatics have been placed out of service and have been bagged over.
This section (like the rest of the Morristown Line still is) was rule 261 signalling, operation in both directions. The automatic waysides were only in place for the dominant flow of traffic (west on track 1, east on track 2), but cab signaling was in effect in both directions. The only real change is that trains now run solely on cab signal indication rather than waysides.
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What would be the contingency plan if a non-cab-signal rescue unit had to move a train?
MidlandMike What would be the contingency plan if a non-cab-signal rescue unit had to move a train?
NJT's System Timetable Special Instructons (Employee timetable and instructions, not schedules) has almost eight pages devoted to Cab signals and Speed Enforecement System. The gist: Failure of either or both systems gives the dispatcher the authority and responsiblity of directing train movements in direct communication with the trains.
Along with the home signals, there is also a "C" light at each interlocking, which means "clear to next interlocking." This is so that non-cab signal equipped units or units with non-functioning cab signals can travel at more than restricted speed.
ns3010 Along with the home signals, there is also a "C" light at each interlocking, which means "clear to next interlocking." This is so that non-cab signal equipped units or units with non-functioning cab signals can travel at more than restricted speed.
That 'splains it....Thnx
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