Working at Broadway

 Tuesday 4th Aug

We meet at Broadway signal box to discuss the actions for the day.

While in the box I notice a new addition to the RH end of the block shelf. This is the SPAD alarm system which is activated if a train passes the section signal at danger. This is triggered if the train enters the track circuit directly after the signal. 

This unit flashes and emits a warning note. I believe that there is also a warning light on the signal.

A bit of polishing needed on the lever handles to remove some rusting. We are now embarking on the work required to ensure that everything is in good working order. 

Firstly we need to sort out a problem with the temperature compensators in the point rodding runs going up to the North end. The arms on one of these are too close together in the normal position so we need to shorten two of the rods and redrill bolt holes.

A bit more work to do here next week.

John B is preparing a list of all the actions and testing that will be required before the box can be commissioned -  We have started checking that all the electrical locks are  working but this needs to be done in conjunction with the signals on a on-running day - a lot of electrical testing still to be done.

Here's a picture of the electrical control board in the locking room with track circuit relays, etc. 

Quite a complicated set up!

Curly

S&T Workshop Open for Diesel Gala

 During the Diesel Gala last weekend we opened up the S & T Workshop with an exhibition to demonstrate some of the signalling systems used on the railway. All of this is true heritage and is being kept in full working order. (Apart from the model diesel which was being used to demonstrate how track circuiting operates). You can just see this on the LHS of this picture together with the block bell and token machine (with its covers removed)

 

And the token machine at the other end "station"

Here are a couple of close ups of the mechanical locking trays used in signal box locking rooms. These connect to the levers "upstairs" and , for example, prevent a signal being pulled off if pointwork is not set correctly.

A working demonstration of the Strowger telephone system which is in full operation on the railway 

Some more views of the workshop as set up for our visitors

Many visitors came through on the day and enjoyed the visit.

Curly