Girder bridges are good choices for river crossings for a number of reasons. Firstly, they offer great strength and...
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Should I use a girder bridge for a river crossing?Read more -
What are my options for motorising a level crossing on my layout ?Read moreMotorising a level crossing can add a realistic touch to the operation of a layout. There are several options...
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What is AWS in railways?Read moreAWS stands for Automatic Warning system. It's a device fitted to British trains since the 1950s to warn drivers that...
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What advantages would a slower-acting point motor offer to my layout ?Read moreWhen it comes to model railways, the choice of point motors can greatly impact the performance and realism of a...
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How do I set couplings to the correct height?Read moreSetting your couplings to the correct height is more important than you might think. If the height difference between...
What is the smallest baseboard size for OO/HO gauge?
Based on the principle of a layout configured as a loop the smallest practical baseboard size for an OO/HO will be 31 inches by 31 inches (about 80cm x 80cm). This value is based on a track of 'First' radius (371 mm/ 14.6") which is the smallest conventional option for a loop. A baseboard that is 31" square will ensure that a first radius loop will fit within the edges of the board without any overhang of the track.
Other schools of thought, including manufacturers, may recommend that the smallest practical loop would be based on a 'second' radius track segments (438 mm/ 17.2"). The reason for this is based on the principle that locomotives and rolling stock are not ideally configured to continually take the tightest curves and as such the chance of derailments are higher on the tightest turns, especially at higher speeds.
Those looking to experiment with 'flexible track' may find that option offers the opportunity to create a bespoke layout that might be tighter than first radius although the principle still remains that the tighter the turn the greater the chance of derailment and subsequent damage to the locomotive and rolling stock.
Posted in: Best practices
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