Welcome to the
Picture 34page of the
FSMR websiteThis page shows the re-construction in the mid 90'sof the station point layout to accommodate the new double track platform extension. This entailed construction of a switched diamond, thought to be unique in 10 1/4" gauge.
The picture shows the "gap" that requires filling with the new switched diamond crossing. Already, the new points on the mid right and mid top of the picture have been manufactured and installed.
Previously, trains leaving the short platform 2 (on the right) had to run out to the triangle on the top right, before reversing back into number 1 platform for departure (left hand). Under the new layout, the two new points and diamond allow equal access to the triangle shunt or straight out to the main line.
Of interest is the original point pneumatic operating gear in the black box mid picture
Another view of the new layout, from adjacent to the signal mans position and on top of the platform selection point. Locos awaiting to back onto a train will either reverse left into platform 2 or right through the "gap" across platform 2 main line access when the new diamond is installed and on into platform 1.
The final piece of the jigsaw!!
Having already constructed and installed the two new points, the technically challenging task of designing and building the new diamond are well underway in the SMR works yard. Taking a well earned rest are FSMR members John Wilkes and David Moore
(owner and driver of the Niagara respectively)
As if by magic, the "gap" is filled and the new diamond completes the new "complex" track layout
The access line to the loco shed and carriage shed is seen running in the far right of the picture
Sitting in the middle of the triangle is the main signal box, which is in power control of all the station and triangle points and signals. All signals and points are interlocked and culminate in the impressive station gantry behind the photographer
All the new point work was constructed on site, using brand new steel rail from Spain. A special powered rolling jig was built on site in order to form the complex curves required for the points. There was also a large amount of milling work on the points and diamond which was also done on site. All the main SMR points use open moving frogs and fixed check rails to give a smother ride, with less wear and tear on the rails and stock.
Each point assembly was then built up on its own a "white" base board, with the line of the rails marked up and then tie bars welded in. This way, the track work was accurately constructed and no nasty surprises awaited when it came to fitting it in to the gaps!!
Finally, the operational mechanisms were built and automated with the standard pneumatically actuated cam plates and feed back switches. The track was then tested with all the loco fleet for any gauge problems. One small problem found on testing, was that a supplementary ram was needed to operate the diamond.