FACING POINTS Meaning and
Definition
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Facing points refers to a term commonly used in the field of railway signaling and operations. It describes a specific configuration of railway track that dictates the movement of trains and provides a means to control the direction in which they travel. Facing points, also known as diverging routes, are found at junctions or crossings where two tracks split and form different paths.
When a train approaches facing points, it has the option to either continue on the main track or take a diverging route. However, the crucial aspect of facing points is that they require specific positioning of the points or switches, which determine whether a train can safely take the diverging route or not. If the points are set correctly, the train can pass through the facing points without any issues. On the other hand, if the points are misaligned or set against the train's intended direction, it will result in a derailment or collision.
Facing points play a pivotal role in maintaining safety and efficiency within rail systems. They allow trains to change tracks and navigate different paths, enabling increased train capacity and flexibility. To ensure smooth operations, facing points are usually equipped with interlocking mechanisms, which prevent conflicting movements or setting of points that could endanger trains.
Overall, facing points are instrumental in facilitating safe and controlled movement of trains at junctions or crossings, ensuring effective rail operations and minimizing the risk of accidents.
Common Misspellings for FACING POINTS
- dacing points
- cacing points
- vacing points
- gacing points
- tacing points
- racing points
- fzcing points
- fscing points
- fwcing points
- fqcing points
- faxing points
- faving points
- fafing points
- fading points
- facung points
- facjng points
- fackng points
- facong points
- fac9ng points
- fac8ng points
Etymology of FACING POINTS
The word "facing points" is a technical term used in railway terminology, particularly in signaling systems. The etymology of "facing points" can be broken down as follows:
1. Facing: The term "facing" here refers to the direction an incoming train is facing when approaching a set of switches or turnouts. In this context, "facing" means that the points of the switch are set to direct the train onto a particular track instead of sending it onto a diverging route.
2. Points: "Points" is an older term for a switch or a set of movable rails that allows trains to transition from one track to another. In the early days of railways, these switches had a mechanical mechanism comprising of point blades that could be manually adjusted to direct the train in the desired direction.
