01-01-2011, 02:42 PM
FYI: a 16 degree curve ( approximately 50" radius in HO ) would have 4" elevation ( outer rail head 4" above the inner rail head ), which is 0.0459768" in HO, The allowable speed of train in that situation would be 10 MPH ( the gauge would be widened to 4' 9-1/2" ).
Super elevation, in the real world compensated for centrifugal force. In the model world there isn't enough CF to be compensated for. the elevation leans the cars into the curve, and as draw bar pull increases ( longer trains ), or "top weight" increases ( taller trains ), the tendancy of super elevation, is to dump the train to the inside of the curve ( at almost any speed ).
It does look really good to see trains " leaning into the curve", but I'd recommend no more than 5 degrees of lean ( the above results in about 8 degrees of lean )
Super elevation, in the real world compensated for centrifugal force. In the model world there isn't enough CF to be compensated for. the elevation leans the cars into the curve, and as draw bar pull increases ( longer trains ), or "top weight" increases ( taller trains ), the tendancy of super elevation, is to dump the train to the inside of the curve ( at almost any speed ).
It does look really good to see trains " leaning into the curve", but I'd recommend no more than 5 degrees of lean ( the above results in about 8 degrees of lean )
We always learn far more from our own mistakes, than we will ever learn from another's advice.
The greatest place to live life, is on the sharp leading edge of a learning curve.
Lead me not into temptation.....I can find it myself!
The greatest place to live life, is on the sharp leading edge of a learning curve.
Lead me not into temptation.....I can find it myself!