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Electromagnetic uncoupling ramp placement trackplanning question General discussion
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Active Member 56 posts George Saridakis Active Member 56 posts
George Saridakis

I am building some modules to operate with a club's portable layout.  Most of the members enjoy running trains on the mainline, while I am planning modules for operational switching using Kadee couplers. 

I plan for tall mountainous scenery to create more visual interest, but that makes manual uncoupling "impossible".

I have used XtrkCad to both develop and "proof" my trackplan for running trains.

My questions are:

  1. Do I have sufficient uncouplers?
  2. Are they properly located?

I have attached the trackplan jpg

The black rectangles represent uncoupling ramps, while the green arrows at the ends of the plan represent train direction.  Not shown (for simplicities purpose) are the narrow gauge modules that reside North of the standard gauge trackplan and have the industries designed to justify operations.

Thanks for sharing any thoughts and recommendations,

BTW, I have built and tested electromagnetic uncouplers of this design:

http://ssandifer.com/Lay/Howard/Const/Magn/Sandifer/Index.htm

George
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reddogpt Regular poster 228 posts
reddogpt

The main key for using

The main key for using uncoupling magnets is making sure they are located on a straight section of track and far enough away from your last curve. They will not work reliably on or close to curves (including diverging routes on turnouts). You must test the area you are considering for an uncoupling magnet by taking two cars and making sure they are perfectly straight when lined up over the magnet. If they have any twist or angle, you must locate the magnet farther from the curve. It appears you may have more magnets than you need as the top center one can handle all the industries up there. But since you are using electromagnets it doesn't really matter and having a lot of them will be very convenient! Just make sure the magnets are a good ways from the curves. The upper left turnout's diverging route magnet maybe to close to the curve. You'll have to check. Either push it farther away (after the S curve) or just use the top center magnet for that spur's uncoupling needs.

Pete
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George Saridakis Active Member 56 posts
George Saridakis

Thanks for taking the time to

Thanks for taking the time to look at this with me Pete!

George
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