Siding Question?

Question

When the switch is thrown, and a rail moves so the train moves to the side track, does the rail move quickly, or slowly? I am asking about the electronic switch. thanks.

Answer 1

slow .......... break a switch point and next one could derail

ex rail employee

mc

Answer 2

Crud.

Rango beat me to the punch again..........

Answer 3

On a standard power controlled switch from a remote point, (not through a crossover necessarily) the switch would begin movement to open or close and would complete its cycle in under 10 seconds.  If lots of sand, oil, debris or ice and snow then time would be affected.

Answer 4

Everyone has been right so far. The switches travel pretty slowly (3-5 secs norm). If you are standing here one you hear a SNAP which gives the impression that they line quick but that is just the gears and levers in the switch locking in place.

Answer 5

It is deceptively rapid although it is not a SNAP!!! It is driven by an electric motor and gears. There are some air actuated ones, that move instantly but I have only seen them in yard switches.