Re: [NSW] Improved points operation

[Bruce Greening <bgreeni@attglobal.net>]

This type of equipment is made by a number of different companies and is
basically to ease the movement of the switch. As switch blades become longer
(allowing 'flatter' angles and higher speed) the switches become more difficult
to move and may require more switch motors to move them. Switch rollers reduce
these forces.

Tony Gatt wrote:

> The first time I had noticed these were on the High speed points at Hornsby
> yesterday (23/9). I thought they were there to assist with the points as the
> point blade is made from a continuous rail, rather than a "pivoting blade"
> like regular point blades.
>
> Any other theories?
>
> Tony.
>
> "Chris Downs" <cvdowns@ozemail.com.au> wrote in message
> Gykz5.5082$O7.79151@ozemail.com.au">news:Gykz5.5082$O7.79151@ozemail.com.au...
> > Does the recent absence of points failures at critical locations have
> > anything to do with addition of a couple or rollers beneath point blades?
> >
> > I've noticed these additions on the AL junction points, OP/main west
> > junction at Lidcombe, points on the OP loop and some other points as well.
> > The rollers are easily identified by their bright yellow casings (which
> are
> > largely free of grime so far).
> >
> > Can anyone add more info on the use of these bearings, do they ease the
> work
> > the points motor does or eliminate seizing?
> >
> > Chris
> >
> >

--
Bruce L. Greening
bgreeni@ibm.net