OERM Signal Class Notes - June 28, 2003

Recommended reading: ALL ABOUT SIGNALS by John Armstrong, Kalmbach Publishing, 1957
Contact Gene if you don't yet have a copy.



The following items were discussed at the Signal Class on June 28, 2003:

Signal Aspects:
 
  • Green Signal = Clear to Proceed
  • Yellow Signal = "Approach" next signal at less than 10 mph prepared to stop short of the signal
  • Red Signal = Stop (and do not procedd - stay stopped)
  • Red with Number Plate = Stop and proceed at restricted speed
  • Restricted speed = 10 mph but no more than able to stop in half distance you can see
  • Flashing Red = Pass at restricted speed (do not need to stop first); it can also indicate diverging track to an unsignaled section
  • Lunar (bluish white) = Same as "Flashing Red"
  • Signals with Multiple Heads: Upper Head = Straight ahead Main Line; Lower Head = Diverging route


Relays:
 
  • Energized = Front Contact Normally Open (won't weld - Carbon)
  • De-eneregized = Back Contact Normally Closed (usually Silver)
  • Heel = Common Contact
  • Gravity insures return to Back Contack in case of failure


Impedance Bonds:
 
  • Impedance bond connection to track looks like open circuit to AC track circuits
  • Electrified Road usually DC Propulsion with AC signals -- since DC Propulsion and DC Signals can cause false "NO-TRAIN" if one side of train draws less current than the other
  • Both AC Propulsion and AC Signals is OK as long as each uses a different frequency
  • Metro LA Trains uses non-standard 750 VDC Propulsion
  • Oil Junction has no insulated joints (except at switches) so new signals will use all audio circuits and overlays


Typical Train Circuits:
 
  • Basic Train circuits were discussed to get everyone a basic understanding
  • Basic circuit consists of a relay coil (HR) with contacts from multiple devices controlling if that relay should display a clear or restricted approach
  • The multiple device contacts could be Track Relays (train present), Switch Relays (switch thrown to undesired position) and other related circuits









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07/13/2003