What are the ‘thick web switches’ (‘thick webbed switches’)?

18-07-2019

The term thick web switches most commonly refers to a new design of sturdier BG switches on prestressed concrete sleepers, which can handle higher turnout speeds. These are made for 1:8.5 turnouts (less commonly, 1:12), with 160mm (less commonly 115mm) throw, and have clamp locks, spring setting devices (SSD), and the ZU-1-160 thick web rail. In 2003 or 2004, IR decided to use these switches on all the Class A routes and other high-density routes with traffic above 20GMT/year. The new switches have been designed to be easily installable on top of existing prestressed concrete sleepers supporting older switches. Source -

Read More
What classes of accommodation do EMUs offer?
June 21, 2019

In the Mumbai area, the most commonly seen coaches have General Second Class accommodation. Some coaches or compartments are for First Class ticket-holders. There are also compartments, coaches, or entire trains reserved for women, known as Ladies' Compartments or Ladies' Specials. In some cases the Ladies' coaches or compartments are reserved for

Read More
What’s the history of EMU services on IR?
June 21, 2019

Bombay area EMUs date back to the 1920's. In 1925, EMUs from Cammell-Laird and Uerdingenwagonfabrik (Germany) were used on the line from Victoria Terminus to Kurla (what would become the core of the CR suburban service). In 1928 EMU rakes from Cammell-Laird / BTH were used on what is now WR. These were in use until 1974. The BTH rakes were even

Read More
What kinds of electric multiple units does IR operate?
June 21, 2019

The Mumbai region with 1.5kV DC traction has several models of EMUs, classified from WCU-1 through WCU-15 (and beyond??). Most models have DC traction motors with rheostatic control (resistance banks to vary the input power supply). DC EMUs are also used on the Lonavala-Pune section. Information on the precise differences among various older EMU

Read More
What does the term “multiple unit” or “MU” mean, and what is an EMU or DMU?
June 21, 2019

There are two senses of the phrase "multiple unit" to be distinguished. Two or more regular locomotives may be coupled together for greater hauling capacity. In such a cases the locos are said to be operating as multiple units, or to be "MU'ed together" (US terminology: "lash-up"). ये भी पढ़े - योगासन का

Read More
What are the technical specifications for the various loco classes?
June 21, 2019

The section on diesel and electric loco specifications has information on most diesel and electric locomotives of IR, and includes figures on power, max. speed, serial numbers, etc. The information is drawn mostly from Jal Daboo's book, with updates and additions from IRFCA members. Also see the section on additional electric loco specifications

Read More
Steam Locomotive Classes – Introduction
June 21, 2019

This FAQ section was not meant to be a comprehensive list of features or history of locomotive classes. Some classes have been selected for railfan interest, and in the case of locos that are restricted to certain areas, information on where they may be seen today has been provided. Detailed information on dimensions and operating figures, makers'

Read More

Latest News

General Manager’s Safety Award for 10 Staff of Central Railway