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Clever Idea To Avoid Damage To Trains Derailing (and a question)
John sent in this helpful suggestion and also has a question he is hoping someone can answer for him:
We know that 4×8′ (HO) and 2×4′ (N) tables are basics for smaller model train layouts, as most tables and plywood come in 2×8′ and 2×4′ sizes. This size is a good starting point for beginners, and many of today’s great modelers started and learned with smaller layouts. But there is one problem.
Using N-Scale as an example, the 2×4′ table is great if you use 9-3/4″ radius curves in making a basic oval, but trouble arises when you try to make a two-train set-up using 11″ curves outside the 9-3/4″ loop. The larger curved radius brings the track right to the edge of the table, leaving the train where it could easily fall or be knocked onto the floor. But a way around this does exist, as the outside of the train board can be increased an inch or so on each side. The outer track would then stay on the solid board, while the added edges can be used for scenery such as rocks, trees, lichen, or building flats.
Many possibilities can be used to make these edges, such as wood, extruded insulation board, or plastic. There is one substance that I’m not able to remember the name – it’s something like pipe-wrap with an opening all along one end, but is plastic and a lot sturdier. I believe this material is used on trim wood for paneling. Does someone know the name of this product please?
2 Responses to Clever Idea To Avoid Damage To Trains Derailing (and a question)
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to protect the edges of the layout board there are several things that can be used, I prefere to use a moulding called hockey stick which has a rounded edge, another method is to use what is known as wood channel which comes in various widths, another is to use L shape moulding all of these will strengthen the edge as well as protecting it.
You can also use pipe lagging which is a hollow tube made of polyprolene which has a split along it’s length and can be opened and slid along the edge of the board.
I do not know which part of the worldyou reside but the things mentioned here can be purchased in any shop that sells mouldings or plumbing requisites in the UK.
Thanks for your reply, Rob. I live in the U.S., Delaware to be exact, and the closest stores here to the UK is Home Depot or Lowe’s.
The moulding part around the table would not have trains running on it, but would serve an integral part of the layout by containing scenery or building flats that will stop a derailed train from falling on the floor. This would open up a whole new world of N-Scale, as the modeler would not have to use solely 9-3/4″ radius curved track. As we know, 11″ radius curved brings the track right to the edge of a table that is 24″ wide, but adding about an inch (or so) of moulding around the table allows for this wider radius. In this way, a double loop (11″ curved on the outside, 9-3/4″ on the inside) can be built on a 2×4′ table in N-Scale, or on a 4×8′ table in HO that uses 22″ and 18″ radii.
There’s a lot of moulding that can be used, and the types mentioned by Rob in his reply are excellent for the purpose. Thanks again.