| Choosing the right model train track can be an | | | | another problem. Since steel rusts, one will need to |
| important decision. After all, proper track selection will | | | | undertake additional care and maintenance to prevent |
| enable your train to run smoothly over the layout | | | | rust from building up. |
| and bring your model train dreams to life. So, where | | | | Nickel silver tracks conduct electricity as well as brass |
| does one start with the selection process? The first | | | | but are resistant to rust and corrosion. This is why |
| step is to consider the various factors that go into | | | | nickel silver, while being more expensive than the |
| this decision such as scale, metal type, and design. | | | | other metal types, is preferred by a majority of |
| Scales not only determine the different sizes of | | | | model railroad enthusiasts. They feel these |
| model trains when compared to a real train, it also | | | | characteristics-better performance and low |
| determines which track to use. For instance, in the | | | | maintenance--justify the higher cost. |
| United States, the National Model Railroad Association | | | | With regards to the track design, there are various |
| (NMRA) has devised a set of standard rail codes for | | | | options available. For instance, one could purchase a |
| each model train scale. Manufacturers will offer tracks | | | | standard track or one with an integrated roadbed. |
| according to these codes. For instance, if one is | | | | The primary difference is that the track with the |
| building an HO scale train, one might consider the | | | | integrated roadbed has rails attached to strips of |
| Atlas HO Code 100 Track. Don't be intimidated if you | | | | plastic that resemble a bed of gravel under and |
| don't have these codes memorized. Your local hobby | | | | around the rails. The integrated roadbed is ideal for a |
| shop or an online retailer will be happy to recommend | | | | beginner's or a children's train set. However, more |
| different options available for your train scale. | | | | experienced hobbyists prefer to create their own |
| Another factor that is not discussed as much is the | | | | roadbed. |
| type of rail metal used to fabricate the track. The | | | | In addition, one can purchase sectional or flexible |
| train track is composed of one of four materials - | | | | tracks. Sectional tracks are either small pieces of |
| brass, zinc-coated steel, steel, and nickel silver. Brass | | | | curved or straight track. The flexible track, in |
| and zinc-coated track are the most common train | | | | contrast, is a three-foot piece of track that can be |
| track metals. | | | | curved into various shapes and designs. Although the |
| Brass is a good conductor of electricity, but the | | | | merits of the flexible train track are beyond the |
| oxide that forms on it inhibits electricity. As a result, | | | | scope of this article, both the sectional and flexible |
| the care and cleaning associated with brass tends to | | | | train tracks can be integrated seamlessly into the |
| be a bit overwhelming sometimes. In order to keep | | | | same layout. |
| the train in running condition, you need to clean the | | | | Track selection is indeed an important decision. It is |
| rails by removing this oxidation. | | | | also one of the more enjoyable aspects of this |
| The zinc-coated steel has another disadvantage. As | | | | hobby. With some advance consideration and |
| the zinc coating wears away (as it eventually will), it | | | | planning, you'll avoid costly mistakes and put yourself |
| leaves the steel exposed. You are then left with | | | | on the right track to success! |