4.2.4.1 Laying out a Simple Curve

 Project Process

Laying out a Curve. 

The technique for laying out a simple or compound curve is similar to the technique for laying out straight track. The differences are I use a curved radius template instead of a straight edge to keep the tie line straight (pun intended).

Assuming that you have satisfactorily laid down the layout lines for the track, here is the the track laying process I use.

1. Pre-Installation Process  - Track Preparation. See 4.2.3 Straight Track for the standard track preparation process.

 Rail end checks. No changes or additions.

Tie spacing. I do not change tie spacing on curves. There is no significant visual difference between WWSL Standard 1 and Standard 2 on curved track.

Track cleaning. No change or additions.

Individual spare ties. No change or additions.

2. Installation Process

Easement. There is no easement in a simple curve.

 

Super-elevation. There is no super-elevation in a simple curve.

 

Join Track Sections.  There are several changes or additions when laying out curve track. Getting a smoothly flowing connection between tangent (straight) track and the curved track is difficult. The outward pressure of the rail at the joint often creates a kink. 

 

To minimize this difficulty I measure the curve circumference and, at the workbench, I take the required lengths of flex track, insert the rail joiners and solder each section together (without a gap) forming a single long, straight section.  This is the only instance where I recommend soldering rail joiners. Be sure that its the best soldering job - blobs will interfere with the inward moving through the tie plates

 

I place the moveable rail on the inside of the curve.

 

I used Ribbon Rail curve templates to form the desired radius. If the curve is a compound curve, the appropriate Ribbon Rail curve radius template is added to the curved flextrack section. I then take this piece to the layout to install on the curve. I do an initial fit to see what works and doesn't work. This usually involves shifting the full curve template outward to meet the point of tangentcy.

 

Glue Down. I layout the curve using the foam board curved track template instead of a straight edge. The curved template is fastened by a screw into the subroadbed. (another reason why I don't use a center line for roadbed layout lines).

 

Tie Gaps.  Fill those gaps at the rail joiner with the replacement ties. 

 

Rail Gaps. There are NO rail gaps in the simple or compound curve. The rail gaps are located on the straight sections several inches on either side of the curve.