Track Equipment
The more common miniature gauges are considered to be: in(mm) 2½(63.5), 3½(88.9), 5(127), 7¼(184.15), 10¼(260.35), 15 (381). Also in the UK, 12¼(311.15) is a recent introduction and is the largest gauge that can be open to the public with out a Light Railway Order (unless crossing a public road).The US also has 12(304.8) gauge. Years ago, before 7¼, became popular, 9½(215.9) was also common. Throughout the world there are other odd gauges, all presumably a whim of the builder. However the USA prefers 4¾(120.65)in lieu of 5(127) and, apart from the north east, 7½(190.5) in lieu of 7¼(184.15).
The minimum gauge for ground level, stable, passenger hauling is considered to be 5in and then only for garden railways. For public ground level railways 7¼in is the minimum. Many clubs increase stability for 5in tracks by raising them on piers and sitting passengers on sit-astride coaches with feet below track level, thereby reducing the centre of gravity. Whilst 2½ & 3½in locomotives are often capable of pulling passengers, the carriages are usually running on the 5 or 7¼in gauge. Hence many clubs have multi-gauge tracks.
Portable Steel Track
Using our steel rail welded to steel sleepers we can supply the ideal portable track system in any gauge or multi-gauge. Panels are supplied in 2000mm or 4000mm sections either painted or fully galvanised.
Pointwork
We have a range of standard pointwork for all gauges from 3½in to 10¼in. They are of a robust construction to withstand heavy traffic. Each crossing nose is individually machined to suit radius. Switch blades are properly machined and stock rails recessed to ensure a snug fit for the switch blades. The tie bar can be supplied fitted to a spring or lever as required.
Components
Naturally, we supply all components separately. These include, rail, sleepers, rail fixing screws, fishplates, fish nuts & bolts, point levers, point springs etc
Medium Fish Plates
Medium fish plates fit both our steel and aluminium rail sections and are sold in pairs.