I have noticed that many model railroaders use sectional track on curves and flex on straight areas. I use flex everywhere. Am I doing something wrong?

Nope, you are doing fine. Flextrack gives you way more.... err.... flexibility in planing and laying out curves.

Lester Perry Wrote:I have noticed that many model railroaders use sectional track on curves and flex on straight areas. I use flex everywhere. Am I doing something wrong?

Les,On my ISLs I use both..I use sectional track for short pieces..

I have used sectional track for ISLs that was 5'.

Why?

Glad you asked..There was far less cutting and fitting.

Now the N Scale Unitrack by Kato gives you bullet proof track work even though it "sectional"..

Most track planning software, is tailored to sectional curves ( each radius is a "given" ), so persons designing with those software packages will, generally, lay sectional curves of the specified radii.
The radius of a "flex" curve is infinitely variable, and can be used to create curves that fit the space, rather than fit the "plan".
I have a tendency to visualize the topography first, and build the track plan to fit "the lay of the land", so I tend to use flex for my curves, as the radius may vary throughout the length of the curve, depending on what might be "in the way".
Sectional curves can insure that a specific locomotive will negotiate the entire curve. ( I have had to ease parts of a curve, because I got them too tight ---- the SHS&D 3' gauge 2-4-4-2, was built because the curve couldn't be "eased", and the original 2-8-0 couldn't get through it --- Long story, involving the Shipyard owner, and the Mayor who owned the "needed" land )

One has to be willing to "make adjustments", to get flex curves running smoothly, for all the locos that will run on them.
Properly laid sectional curves, are, more often, good to go, for life, from the first to the last. I see the use of either, or both, a matter of personal preference, as opposed to "right or wrong".

For both my current as well as my previous layout, in addition to my flex track and turnouts, I picked up a couple packs of those 'short straight track assortments' that Atlas has. For those places I needed to have a little space, rather than try to cut a short piece of flex, it was much easier just to use one of those various short sectional pieces.

--Randy

rrinker Wrote:For both my current as well as my previous layout, in addition to my flex track and turnouts, I picked up a couple packs of those 'short straight track assortments' that Atlas has. For those places I needed to have a little space, rather than try to cut a short piece of flex, it was much easier just to use one of those various short sectional pieces.
--Randy

Something to consider: rail joiners are not good conductors of electricity. As a rule of thumb, I drop feeders for every section of track. That would be one set of feeders for 3 feet of flex, or 4 sets of feeders for 3 feet of sectional track. Just some food for thought....
Chuck

Flextrack = nearly limitless possibilities for track and curve arrangements
Sectional track = limited possibilities for track and curve arrangements.

Some people simply are not adept at thinking too far outside the box, and having set curve radii creates parameters that such an individual can work with and not feel overwhelmed with possibilities. But the reality is, for a convincing and realistic layout, one must consider all aspects during every phase of layout construction (the big picture). From that philosophy, even flextrack has limitations.

And then there is the issue with flextrack taking more skill and patience to lay properly. Some people are willing to sacrifice design possibilities for smoother running and hassle-free track. If I wasn't very good at soldering rails, had issues with muscle coordination or pain in my hands, or poor with math and geometry, I'd probably opt for sectional track, too.

Hand laid anyone?

It could be that they have the sectional track already.
But look on each join as a chance for physical misalignment and electrical problems.

nachoman Wrote:Flextrack = nearly limitless possibilities for track and curve arrangements
Sectional track = limited possibilities for track and curve arrangements.

Some people simply are not adept at thinking too far outside the box, and having set curve radii creates parameters that such an individual can work with and not feel overwhelmed with possibilities. But the reality is, for a convincing and realistic layout, one must consider all aspects during every phase of layout construction (the big picture). From that philosophy, even flextrack has limitations.

And then there is the issue with flextrack taking more skill and patience to lay properly. Some people are willing to sacrifice design possibilities for smoother running and hassle-free track. If I wasn't very good at soldering rails, had issues with muscle coordination or pain in my hands, or poor with math and geometry, I'd probably opt for sectional track, too.

Kevin,I find the opposite to be true..Using sectional track makes you think ahead like chess.

One needs to think beyond the box and need above average track planing skills to use sectional track on a ISL.

The main reason that I use sectional track is that it's easier to figure out measurements in my head when doing track planning.

Brakie I feel it takes as much planning with flrx but with more freedom to do what you want. I have many places that I feel would be difficult if not impossible to do with sectional. I looked for some photos and this is all I can find.





These curves are not accidents. The second one is leading into a turn with about a 60 inch radius. It is not a very long curve but it is very gentle. Actually I guess I should say coming out of.

Les that's beautiful trackage.

If I were building a bigger layout, I would go with flextrack for compound and easment curves and for the plain economy of using it.

However, I'm building a very small layout where every piece of track counts, being able to figure out measurements makes it easier for me. Since I'm running 18 inch curves (dictated by the minimum radius of the locomotives, not the track manufacturer), it's also easier to align curves with other track. I'm not saying that it can't be done, I'm just saying that it's easier for me. I'm trying to enjoy my hobby.

Chuck Wrote:Something to consider: rail joiners are not good conductors of electricity. As a rule of thumb, I drop feeders for every section of track. That would be one set of feeders for 3 feet of flex, or 4 sets of feeders for 3 feet of sectional track. Just some food for thought.... Chuck