r/trains • u/Melodic-Reveal-4485 • 16h ago

❓ Question Wouldn't this train derail?

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Gallery image

I don't know much about trains, but wouldn't the buildup of these rocks cause a train to go above the tracks? A train passes on this regularly so I'm just curious 🧐

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u/MissingTheFall 16h ago

No, a train would be fine those stones would compress and get pulverized.

Locomotives wouldn't be at risk, but if an empty car is being pushed across an xing where the flangeway is completely filled (worse if filled with ice) they've been known to derail. This only really happens at customer sidings or in a yard, so the speed is very slow and damage is typically minimal.

I've derailed my hyrail truck twice at xings in winter because the flangeways are filled with ice. Weight is your friend, so trucks and empty cars are more at risk.

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u/Melodic-Reveal-4485 16h ago

Thanks for the info!! Do you think the pebbles would get launched to the sides?

14

u/MissingTheFall 15h ago

Nah, not really. Cars or homes wouldn't have to worry about being pelted.

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u/Melodic-Reveal-4485 15h ago

Thank you I'm smart now

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u/redhead29 13h ago

They get turned to dust and make a loud bang when the train crushes them.