A catch point is a safety device used to prevent runaway trains from entering a section of track where they are not supposed to go. Catch points are typically installed on steep grades, near bridges or other areas where a runaway train could pose...

The longevity of foam underlay can vary depending on a number of factors such as the quality of the foam, the temperature and humidity in the model railway environment and the amount of wear and tear on the underlay. On average, foam underlay can...

A curved station platform can be a challenging feature to design and construct. One important consideration is the distance between the track and the platform, which can affect the safety of the layout and the durability of the rolling stock.As a...

There are several options for motorising points on an N Gauge layout. Here are some of the most common methods: Solenoid motors: Solenoid motors are the most common method for motorising points. They are easy to install and are compatible with...

An asymmetric 3-way turnout, also known as a Y-switch, is a type of turnout that diverges into three tracks but with one of the tracks diverging at a different angle than the other two. This creates a "Y" shape, with one branch diverging off to...

The number of locomotives that can be controlled at one time on an analogue layout depends on several factors such as the power supply, the type of controllers in use and the complexity of the layout. In general terms, most analogue controllers...

Yes, it is possible to apply a simple wash to a matt surface on a model railway. A wash is a thin layer of paint or ink that is applied to a surface to create shadows and highlights in the crevices and details of the model. To apply a wash to a...

Clerestory carriages were a common style of passenger carriage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterised by a raised roof section with windows along the sides. In the context of model railways, some passenger carriages are...

Retaining walls are used to stop the soil from a slope falling under gravity where they could block railway tracks, roads or other infrastructure. They can be used in a variety of ways on a model railway layout to add visual interest and realism....

Single-slip points are typically used in situations where one track merges into another at an angle. For example, if a branch line joins a mainline at a slight angle, a single-slip point can be used to allow trains to transition smoothly from one...

The available options for controlling a turntable are varied. The most basic method of controlling a turntable is by using a manual hand crank. This results in physically turning the turntable by hand to rotate it into the desired position. This...

A DMU (Diesel Multiple Unit) refers to a type of self-propelled railway vehicle that is powered by one or more diesel engines. Unlike traditional locomotives, DMUs do not require a separate locomotive to pull them and can operate as a standalone...