What is the role of rail signaling within the railway system?
What is the role of rail signaling within the railway system? In simple terms, railway signalling is a system of traffic lights for trains. Safety rules permit only one train on a specific section of track at any one time to keep the trains from colliding. Most major railway systems, the UK one included, operate multiple trains per hour, with numerous intersected routes.
What is the railway signaling in the UK?
The railway signalling system used across the majority of the United Kingdom rail network uses lineside signals to control the movement and speed of trains. The modern-day system mostly uses two, three, and four aspect colour-light signals using track circuit – or axle counter – block signalling.
What does a red signal mean for a train driver?
A red aspect (Danger) tells the driver that they must stop at this signal and they must come to a complete stop by the signal. They must not proceed past this signal and if they do, automatic emergency braking is applied and will bring the train to a halt.
How do railroad block signals work?
Block signals are often “approach lit” to conserve bulbs and electricity. They remain dark until the approach of an oncoming train is detected, and are illuminated only when a train is in the block that the signal faces. The circuitry is more complicated, but lamps last longer and power consumption is less.
Who controls the speed of a train?
Rail speed limits in the United States are regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration. Railroads also implement their own limits and enforce speed limits. Speed restrictions are based on a number of factors including curvature, signaling, track condition, and the presence of grade crossings.