Just read this and had to comment.
I have read the reports concerning Grayrigg, and
in my own opinion neglect, apathy and bureaucracy were to blame.
There is absolutley nothing wrong with the concept of facing point turnouts/crossovers.
With higher poundage rail and suitable ratio ( e.g 1:25 ) highspeed turnouts these days, they can be entered in a facing crossover or reverse switch movement at 80+ kph and normal main line runnung speed for straight through traffic. Lesser ratio turnouts obviously at a lesser speed. So long as all connecting and detecting equipment is up to and maintained to standard, and stockrail, switches and track geometry,are monitored and maintained when required, then no problem what so ever.
Dan The Man
Quote:
|
Mostly that's all maintenance is - examining track and keeping records.
|
Dan, dont forget the most important and less boring part of mtce, maintaining and repairing
Grayrigg was a collection of failures which should have been identified and corrected and unfortunately, culminated in an extrordinary failure which, fortunately, is not likely to ever be repeated. ( unintentionally )
Facing point turnouts/crossovers will allways be required at certain locations for operational requirements.
You may feel safe.
Cheers,
SBJ
http://scarbagjack-jackontrack.blogspot.com/