What Are Model Train Tracks?

First is of course your electric powered model train. Second, the track of your train. If your model kit doesn't come with a track, then there are a lot of things that you should learn first about model train tracks. There are different sizes of tracks and trains also come in different sizes as well.Different sizes as well. Scales. The given scale example which is 1:220 is a Z scale model and it means the train is 220 times smaller as compared to the real train.

Model Train Track Sizes

There are many different model train scales, Ho scale being the most popular amongst them. HO scale is 1:87, meaning the real train is 87 times bigger than the model train. Model railroaders and train enthusiast prefer the HO scale model as they find it perfect for layout because of its balanced size.

Gauge: The measurement of the track width is simply the gauge. There are various track gauges that may only fit specific model scales. But there are times where the track is tweaked in order for lager model scales to fit and they are usually done by advanced train enthusiasts. The HO scale for example is 87 times smaller than the real train. The designated track for the HO model scale has a gauge of "0.650". If you have observed, having no knowledge and not being able to determine the compatible track gauge will render your model train useless not until you can buy the right track that will fit its scale.

Types of Model Train Tracks

Figuring out how much track you need to buy and the type of track you require always depends on the overall design of the track. Keep in mind, when creating the design, that you need enough room to lay the tracks. After your layout is planned it is easy to figure out the length of the track you require and you will know if you need half-track sections or odd track lengths. Creating custom track sizes is easy.

For corners, you will need radius track sections, which are available in different radii to create tight corners, long easy corners, and everything in between. Straight tracks will also be needed and those are also available in different lengths. This allows you to pick the track pieces that will help in creating your specific layout most easily.

In a 24 inch radius of an Atlas HO True-Track, 16 sections are required in order to complete a full 48 inch diameter. For the 18 inch radius, 12 sections required to complete a circle of 36 inch diameter.

In addition to the curved and straight tracks, there are crossings, turnouts and flex tracks which vary from one manufacturer to the next.

You should understand that not all brands of integrated roadbed track would be well matched with other brands. Flex tracks are directly attached to the roadbed and as the names suggests, you can bend the track so that it creates any radius you need. A closed switch allows the train to stay on the current track, but if the switch is "thrown", then the train chooses an alternate path.

It is never recommend that you put together a model train track without any prior planning. Jeremy Vaness is a model train enthusiast. For more great information on model train building [http://www.ModelTrainForBeginners.com] visit [http://www.ModelTrainForBeginners.com].

Model Train Track - Considerations For Your Track Design

When you create your hobby railroading layout, you can get as simple or as complicated with your model train track design as you want. The track products you need to purchase are determined by your overall track design.

Your particular layout may require odd track lengths or the use of half-track sections. To create custom track lengths, you can use place a track section in a bench vise and cut it to the required length with a hacksaw.

You will need not only straight track sections, but radius track sections as well. Radius track sections are available in various radius sizes, so you must determine which track pieces will work to produce your specific layout design.

Not all curved track dimensions are stated in terms of radius. In the HO scale of trains, track dimensions are stated in terms of radius. Atlas HO True-Track in a 24" radius requires 16 sections of 24" radius track to complete a full 48" diameter circle. Atlas HO True-Track in an 18" radius requires 12 sections to create a circle with a 36" diameter.

In addition to straight and curved track components, there are other categories for track such as flex track, crossings, and turnouts. The track components available will vary among manufacturers.

Flex track is exactly what the name implies. Crossings are junctions on your track where a track heading in one direction crosses a track heading in another direction. Turnouts, often called switches, are track sections that allow an entering train to choose its route on one of two or three different tracks. There is a lot of flexibility in the track design. For more helpful tips and insights on model train track, be sure to visit his website ModelTrainForBeginners.com.