Choo, choo, choo – train incoming! Whether it be people or freight, trains are a major source of transportation worldwide. Ever seen one run by? If so, you might be curious just how this hefty vehicle got on the tracks in the first place. Well, worry not – because we’ve got the answer for you.
Unless the manufacturing facility has its own tracks connecting to a rail line, cranes will lift the trains to get them situated on the tracks!
Read on to find more about trains, tracks, and their importance.
How Are Trains Transported?
Before we can use them for our own transport, we have to get the train to the rails first. The three main methods used are:
- Flatbed Trucks
- Ships
- Rail Transport
Of course, the best (and most practical) method is via rail transport.
How Does A Train Stay On Track?
You may not have noticed, but train wheels have a semi-conical shape, meaning the diameter of the wheel will constantly be changing – but since they’re connected by an axle, they still spin at the same rate. The end result? A smoothly running train. (Sigh. If only we could introduce some special geometry into our lives to help us keep on life’s track.)
Here’s a short video to help explain this concept better!
Can A Train Run Without A Track?
Not for long. Not only are the wheels relatively thin, but trains are pretty heavy themselves – which would mean that instead of running on the ground, they’d run right into it. While this would make for a cool action movie scene – in real life? Not so much.
What Are Railroad Tracks Like?
All this time we’ve been going on about tracks (and rightfully so, since they are quite important!) – so what exactly are they like? Guiding the train along, these train tracks are made up of two parallel steel rails connected by railroad ties.
Some tracks can even carry electricity to power trains! Cool, isn’t it?
Why Are There Crushed Stones Alongside Railroad Tracks?
If you’ve ever been near a railroad, you’ll spot the area covered in crushed stones (also known as ballast). Though they look nice, their actual purpose is not for aesthetic value but rather to hold the railroad ties in place.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the first-ever passenger tram was horse-drawn? Oof. We feel for that horse – imagine having to haul that much weight!
Can I Walk On A Railroad Track?
Unless you fancy going to jail, we definitely would recommend you do not. These tracks are private property – and as such, it’s illegal to walk on them.
So, if you’re not at a classified crossing, stay away from the tracks!
We hope we were able to satisfy your curiosity about all train-related things. Now, if someone ever asks you how a train gets on a track or why these bad boys are so important in the first place – you’ll be able to answer them with ease!
