In the world of model railroading, a layout is defined as the plan that contains a scale track for the operation of the trains. A layout can have different sizes that range from a shelf-top to entire basements, rooms or even whole buildings. Generally, a table is used for a layout but other methods such as including doors can be used too. No matter what is the size of the layout, there are certain basic components that are integrated to form more complex layouts. These components are:
Circular Track This layout simply goes round and round. It is basically designed for young children.
Stub end track It is a straight track and contains buffers at each end. This may be the simplest layout but it is ineffective on its own as your train needs to have a reverse option.
Spur Line An option of switching is provided if a spur is added to one side of a straight track. Although switching enables your train to move away from the main track but return of the train is not possible.
Passing Loop If another spur is added to the original spur track towards the opposite direction then a layout is formed that allows other trains to pass. After going from a single track, the train goes to double track and then returns again to the single one.
Paddle or Balloon Line In this layout, a switch is connected to one side of the straight track and then rejoins it in the opposite direction. With this layout, the train travels continuously and returns to its initial position.
Y-end A turnaround track can be made if three switches are connected at one side of a straight track.
Switchback After reaching the stub end on a linear track, the reverses onto a switch line and then travels onto the third line.
Depending upon space and skill, you can make complex layouts using these components. Apart from track layouts, there are station layouts also. These are Junction, Through station and Terminus. Tracks join or diverge at a junction. In a Through Station, local trains stop for brief amount of time whereas express trains dont stop at all. In a Terminus, the trains stop and then go back to their initial position.
You may also take help from magazines as well as internet if good ideas dont come in your mind. There are hundreds of layouts illustrated on websites. If you are a beginner or want to modify your existing layout then take out pencil and paper and start researching.
Circular Track This layout simply goes round and round. It is basically designed for young children.
Stub end track It is a straight track and contains buffers at each end. This may be the simplest layout but it is ineffective on its own as your train needs to have a reverse option.
Spur Line An option of switching is provided if a spur is added to one side of a straight track. Although switching enables your train to move away from the main track but return of the train is not possible.
Passing Loop If another spur is added to the original spur track towards the opposite direction then a layout is formed that allows other trains to pass. After going from a single track, the train goes to double track and then returns again to the single one.
Paddle or Balloon Line In this layout, a switch is connected to one side of the straight track and then rejoins it in the opposite direction. With this layout, the train travels continuously and returns to its initial position.
Y-end A turnaround track can be made if three switches are connected at one side of a straight track.
Switchback After reaching the stub end on a linear track, the reverses onto a switch line and then travels onto the third line.
Depending upon space and skill, you can make complex layouts using these components. Apart from track layouts, there are station layouts also. These are Junction, Through station and Terminus. Tracks join or diverge at a junction. In a Through Station, local trains stop for brief amount of time whereas express trains dont stop at all. In a Terminus, the trains stop and then go back to their initial position.
You may also take help from magazines as well as internet if good ideas dont come in your mind. There are hundreds of layouts illustrated on websites. If you are a beginner or want to modify your existing layout then take out pencil and paper and start researching.
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Who else wants to finally create the model railroad layouts of their dreams? Discover the easiest and step by step approach to create stunning model railway layouts even if you've no experience before.
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