Re: Homebuilt train to Orbost

[Adam <adamdunning@start.com.au>]

I see what you are getting at.  Like the SCC aims to develop solar
energy for cars, a similar rail challenge could work for rail.  It
would be interesting to see if any group could come up with the money
for such a challenge.

The steel wheel and rail would give them great traction so long as it
isn't wet or greasy.

In article <VuX46.4$Gm4.2812@nsw.nnrp.telstra.net>,
  "David Martin" <d_martin@mountains.net.au> wrote:
> I was thinking of an experimental train.
> Think about the cars entered in the Solar Car Challenge, and apply
similar
> principles to a train.
> I envisage a driver, and a small number of passengers. Yes, I know
entrants
> in the SCC don't carry passengers.
> Locomotive would carry driver, large area of photovoltaic cells,
maybe a few
> passengers.
> Carriages would carry a few passengers, and more solar cells.
> Possibly have sets, like suburban trains.
> Light weight construction, low air resistance.
>
> If solar cars can crack 100km/h, think what steel wheels on steel
rail could
> do with one or two solar
> carriages in tow.
>
> Maybe recoup some costs by giving joy-rides to tourists.
>
> No, it wouldn't be economically viable. Is the SCC economically
viable? Or
> building a model railway in your backyard?
> Or building your own train to go from Orbost to Nowa Nowa?
>
> --
> David Martin
> Web Developer - FrontPage, ASP, Access
> Info Blue Mountains Railway Pages
> http://info.mountains.net.au/rail
>
>


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