Otis Singleton
Electric trains are powered by electricity from overhead lines, a third rail, or onboard energy storage such as a battery. The simplest version of an electric train involves a single sliding wire that collects electric power from overhead lines, feeding it to a single-phase induction motor. The induction motor's rotor is connected to the wheels, which are always in contact with the track, completing the circuit. To create your own simple electric train, you will need two neodymium magnets, a battery, and copper wire. First, coil the copper wire around a dowel, then place the magnets at each end of the battery, ensuring the same poles are facing out. When the magnets touch the wire coil, an electric current is created, powering the train down the coil.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric train setup type | Temporary or permanent layout |
| Scale | O, HO, N, or Z |
| Layout design | Modular, landscaped, etc. |
| Railroad | Real or fictional |
| Era | Historic or modern |
| Power source | Overhead lines, third rail, or on-board energy storage |
| Voltage | Typically 25 kV or 3 kV DC |
| Motor type | Single-phase or three-phase induction motor |
| Torque | High and uniform |
| Power transmission | Rectifier and inverter for three-phase power |
| Braking system | Pneumatic or regenerative |
| Rolling stock | Electric locomotives, electric multiple units, or both |
| Track clearance | Sufficient height for double-stack container cars |
| Signalling | Potential interference from traction current |
| Aesthetics | Overhead lines may impact landscape |
| Safety | Risk of entanglement with overhead lines |
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What You'll Learn
- Planning: Choose a scale, buy a train set, and plan your space
- Track design: Decide on a track shape, and whether to use a third rail or overhead line
- Power supply: Use a battery or a continuous conductor along the track
- Locomotive: Pick a locomotive with the right power and couplers for your train set
- Train cars: Select cars with matching poles to ensure the train moves in one direction
Planning: Choose a scale, buy a train set, and plan your space
Planning is an important step in setting up an electric train. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your electric train setup:
Choose a scale
The first step is to choose the right scale for your electric train. The scale refers to the size of the train and track. Different scales have different space requirements. For example, O-scale layouts require a lot of space, while HO and N scales are more commonly used as they can fit in smaller spaces like a den, basement, or garage. Consider the space you have available and choose a scale that will fit comfortably.
Buy a train set
Once you've decided on a scale, it's time to buy your train set. You can choose from a variety of options, including train sets with a specific railroad and track or individual locomotives and railroad cars. If you opt for separate components, ensure that the couplers—the hooks that connect the train cars—are compatible. Different manufacturers may have incompatible coupler styles, so it's important to check before purchasing.
Plan your space
Consider the amount of space you have available and the type of layout you want to create. If you're short on space, a temporary layout with basic tracks and accessories might be a good option. On the other hand, if you have more room, you can plan a permanent layout with more intricate designs, landscapes, and scenery. Think about the overall theme and consistency of your layout, whether it's based on a real place and time or a fictional world.
Additional considerations
Before purchasing your train set, it's important to decide on the railroad you want to model. You can choose from popular options like the Union Pacific or create your own ideal railroad. Each railroad has its unique colour schemes and heralds—icons or trademarks painted on the locomotives and cars. Additionally, consider the power source for your electric train, as you may need to invest in batteries or other power supply options.
By following these steps and planning ahead, you'll be well on your way to choosing the right scale, buying a suitable train set, and effectively planning the space for your electric train setup.
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Track design: Decide on a track shape, and whether to use a third rail or overhead line
When it comes to designing the track for your electric train setup, you have a few options to consider. Firstly, decide on the shape and layout of the track. This will depend on the space you have available and the desired complexity of your setup. You can start with a simple loop and expand from there, adding additional tracks and accessories as desired. Remember to plan for the necessary space, especially if you're building a permanent layout.
Now, let's discuss the power delivery system for your electric train track, which is a crucial aspect of the track design. You have two main options: using a third rail or opting for an overhead line. Each has its advantages and considerations:
Third Rail System:
- The third rail system involves mounting an additional rail at track level, which supplies power to the train through a sliding "pickup shoe" or a contact roller, as seen in the first electric tram line in Lichterfelde, Germany, in 1881.
- This system is often used in metropolitan areas, such as the Paris Métro, where trains run on rubber tyres instead of traditional steel wheels.
- One advantage of the third rail system is that it provides a consistent power supply since the train is in constant contact with the rail.
Overhead Line System:
- The overhead line system involves suspending power lines above the track, from which the train collects electricity through a pantograph or a sliding wire, as seen in the world's first electric passenger train presented by Werner von Siemens in Berlin in 1879.
- This system is more common and is often used in long-distance electric railways, such as the Trans-Siberian Railway, which has been fully electrified since 2002.
- One advantage of the overhead line system is that it allows for better visibility of the power infrastructure, which can be beneficial for maintenance and safety checks.
When choosing between these systems, consider factors such as cost, fragility, and the impact on the surrounding landscape. Overhead lines, for example, may require alterations to tunnels and bridges to ensure sufficient height clearance, especially for double-stacked container trains. Additionally, the appearance of overhead lines and their cabling may significantly impact the landscape compared to a third rail system, which has a lower profile.
Remember, the track design and power delivery system you choose will depend on your specific requirements, the space available, and the level of complexity you desire for your electric train setup.
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Power supply: Use a battery or a continuous conductor along the track
Powering an electric train model can be done in a variety of ways, including using batteries or a continuous conductor along the track.
Batteries
Battery-electric trains are a cost-effective, long-term solution with multiple benefits. They can be used as a clean backup power source, bolstering the resilience of the electric grid. Battery-electric trains can be deployed to areas experiencing power outages, and they can be charged in locations where electricity prices are low. Additionally, battery-electric trains can serve as modular shipping containers, capable of being exchanged between freight rail and maritime shipping vessels, contributing to the decarbonization of both sectors.
Continuous Conductor
An alternative to batteries is using a continuous conductor along the track, such as an overhead line or a third rail. Overhead lines are electrical cables that transmit electrical energy to electric trains, trams, or trolleybuses. They are often referred to as overhead catenary, overhead contact lines (OCL), or traction wires. The electric trains use devices such as pantographs or trolley poles to collect the current from the overhead lines.
The third rail system involves supplying power through a continuous rail near the ground, parallel to the tracks. This system provides continuity if one substation fails and allows for some oversupply. However, it requires special protection to ensure safety.
Couplers
When using a continuous conductor, it is important to ensure compatibility with couplers, which are the "hooks" that connect the locomotives and cars. Different manufacturers may have incompatible coupler styles, so it is essential to check for compatibility when purchasing trains and tracks from multiple manufacturers.
Planning
Before setting up your electric train, it is crucial to plan the layout, including the available space, the desired railroad, and the power supply. Consider the size of the train set, the number of additional tracks and accessories, and the compatibility of the couplers.
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Locomotive: Pick a locomotive with the right power and couplers for your train set
When it comes to choosing a locomotive for your electric train set, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you pick the right one. Firstly, examine the outer shell of the locomotive. The quality of the outer shell is often a reflection of the quality of the internal components. Look for crisp and sharp lettering, neat paintwork, and any additional details that indicate a well-built model.
Next, consider the power source of the locomotive. If you're opting for a brass locomotive, for instance, be aware that they typically work with an electrical connection through the track and a loose blue motor wire. Check that the locomotive's electrical contacts are set up correctly to avoid short circuits. Traditionally, the locomotive picks up power from the right side, while the tender picks it up from the left.
Another important aspect to consider is the coupler type. Couplers are devices that connect the locomotive to other train cars. There are various types available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, knuckle couplers are popular as they are more realistic and work well with magnetic uncouplers, but they require a certain amount of time and effort to convert all your equipment. Horn hook couplers, on the other hand, are less favoured due to their unrealistic appearance. Some common types of couplers include the Janney coupler, the Schaku coupler, the Willison coupler, and the Kadee coupler.
It's worth noting that certain couplers are designed to work with specific train scales. For example, N scale couplers tend to be smaller, contributing to a more realistic appearance when used with larger train models. Additionally, some manufacturers, such as ScaleTrains, Rapido Trains, and Broadway Limited Imports, have developed proprietary couplers for their N-scale trains, which are marketed as Magne-Matic compatible.
Finally, consider the availability of spare parts and the expandability of your train set. Opt for well-known manufacturers that offer a wide range of compatible tracks and accessories, making it easier to expand your layout in the future. Additionally, purchasing from hobby shops or specialist distributors gives you the advantage of expert advice and guidance, ensuring you make an informed decision when choosing your electric train set's locomotive.
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Train cars: Select cars with matching poles to ensure the train moves in one direction
Ensuring that your electric train cars have matching poles is a crucial step in setting up your electric train. This step ensures that your train moves in a single direction as intended.
When selecting train cars, it is important to pay close attention to the couplers, which are the "hooks" that connect your locomotives and cars together. Couplers come in various styles, and incompatible couplers can cause issues with your train's movement. Therefore, always ensure that the couplers on your train cars match.
Additionally, consider the directionality of your train cars. Each car should have a clear front and rear end, and all cars should be oriented in the same direction. This consistency in orientation will ensure that your train moves in a coordinated manner.
To further enhance the functionality of your electric train, you may want to explore railroad switches. These mechanical installations enable trains to transition smoothly from one track to another. They consist of linked tapering rails, known as points or switch rails, which can be adjusted to guide the train towards a straight or diverging path.
By incorporating railroad switches, you can design intricate layouts with multiple tracks and routes. This adds versatility to your electric train setup, allowing you to create complex and engaging pathways for your train to traverse. Remember to plan your layout carefully, ensuring that your train cars, with their matching poles, can navigate smoothly through the chosen route.
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Frequently asked questions
You need to decide on the railroad, track, power, and era before investing in an electric train, landscaping materials, or structure kits.
The Union Pacific (UP), Burlington Northern & Santa Fe (BNSF), and the Canadian National Railways (CNR) are popular among model railroaders. Many modelers also choose to model a "fallen flag", a railroad that has been taken over by a larger company.
You can make a simple electric train with two neodymium magnets, a battery, and a coil of copper wire.
First, coil the copper wire around a 5/8-inch diameter dowel rod. Then, connect a magnet to each end of the battery. Place the assembled train at the opening of the coil, ensuring the magnets are repelling.
When the magnets touch the wire coil, an electrical circuit is completed, creating a magnetic field. The repelling magnetic fields will push the train down the coil. To make the train move in a specific direction, ensure the battery power is connected to matching poles.
