Contractor examines a newly replaced points motor during an upgrade programme on a bust railway system.
A set of points (also called a switch or turnout) is a mechanical device enabling trains to change direction from one track to another at a railway junction. The points are usually operated remotely by a signaller or line controller and are powered by electrical (sometimes hydraulic or pneumatic) motors. Regular maintenance programmes are vital to the correct operation and setting of points and are absolutely essential to the safe running of any railway. If the points fail to work correctly, the signals are designed remain at red. Most points are intended to be traversed at lower speeds but special points are installed for the safe transit of trains on high speed railways. An efficient and integrated transportation system is essential for any developed or developing country. Transport drives productivity, improves the quality of life and, carefully planned, is good for the environment. An affordable, sustainable passenger and freight railway service is a vital component of a nation’s economic success. Railways are the safest form of mass transportation. Each day, the UK rail network carries around 22,000 trains, many are full to capacity and the demand is predicted to grow by 30% in the next decade. It is essential to get more passengers onto an already crowded railway. The system receives a daily pounding from an ever-increasing number of faster and heavier trains and it's no surprise that a huge amount of the rail system needs to be upgraded or replaced to ensure a reliable, efficient and safe system. Unfortunately, for reasons of safety, major works must take place during prolonged 'possessions' or ‘blockades’ when the trains are stopped and the contractors can carry out their essential replacement programmes unimpeded. Skilled rail contractors using sophisticated machinery are utilised to speed the upgrade programme as much as possible.
Size: 4252px × 4252px
Location: Stoke-On-Trent, UK.
Photo credit: © qaphotos.com / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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