Comments on: Planning a Super Elevation

By: Tim Morlok

Tim Morlok — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 00:28:14 +0000

Super elevations: Proto – average: 3.6″ to 4″ and 6″ max (per FRA)
HO scale mainline: 4″ = 0.045″, branch line: 2″ to 3″ = 0.0225 to 0.03375 inches
N scale mainline: = 0.025″, branch line: = 0.0125 to 0.01875 inches (too small to
notice)

By: David Stokes

David Stokes — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 02:54:38 +0000

Superelevation in model railways is a visual attraction that serves little or no mechanical function. Do it – it looks great when done well, and your trains will look great. However, have you considered transition curves on your layout. Now these DO improve the way trains move. A train travelling on a tangent (straight track) will try to continue to travel in a straight line when approaching into a curve, and needs to be persuaded to go round that curve. Without a transition curve the change in direction is a sudden and visually jarring experience. The train doesn’t “flow”. By installing a short, slightly larger radius section of track before the main curve, the train is coaxed into the curve in a well mannered proper fashion . Look up “Transition curves” on the net for how to do it. You won’t be disappointed.

By: David Broad

David Broad — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 01:59:17 +0000

Worthwhile for what? Appearance or function. I had problems with a couple of curves around 20″ radius where derailments were a problem so I put approx 1/16th inch wooden rod under the tie ends to superelevate the curves and now I can propel 7 coach trains around the curves without any problems.
For appearance it is quite difficult to actually see any super elevation on UK main lines but I find the improvement in running makes it well worth doing.