TRACK CIRCUIT Meaning and
Definition
-
A track circuit is an essential component of the railway signaling system that is used to detect the presence and location of trains on a particular section of track. It is designed to ensure safe and efficient train operations by providing continuous monitoring of the track's occupancy.
The track circuit consists of two running rails that are electrically isolated from each other. These rails act as conductors of an electrical circuit, where an electric current flows through them. The circuit is usually powered by a trackside power supply.
When a train enters a section of track, it shunts or short-circuits the track circuit, which causes a change in electrical resistance. This change is detected by trackside equipment, such as track relays, which interprets it as the presence of a train. The relay then sends this information to the control center or a signal box, allowing the signaling system to display appropriate signals to regulate train movements.
Track circuits not only detect the presence of trains but also provide vital information about their location on the track. By dividing the track into distinct sections, occupancy detection and train tracking become more accurate, enabling safe headway distances and preventing potential collisions.
In summary, a track circuit is an electrical circuit formed by the running rails to detect the presence and location of trains. It is a fundamental component of railway signaling systems, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of trains by continuously monitoring track occupancy.
Common Misspellings for TRACK CIRCUIT
- rrack circuit
- frack circuit
- grack circuit
- yrack circuit
- 6rack circuit
- 5rack circuit
- teack circuit
- tdack circuit
- tfack circuit
- ttack circuit
- t5ack circuit
- t4ack circuit
- trzck circuit
- trsck circuit
- trwck circuit
- trqck circuit
- traxk circuit
- travk circuit
- trafk circuit
- tradk circuit
Etymology of TRACK CIRCUIT
The word "track circuit" combines two distinct components: "track" and "circuit".
The term "track" refers to the designated pathway or rail system along which trains run. It derives from the Middle Low German word "trak" and the Old English word "træc", both of which mean "path" or "track".
The term "circuit" pertains to a closed electrical pathway through which current can flow. It originates from the Latin word "circuītus", meaning "a going around" or "a circuitous way".
When combined, "track circuit" refers to an electrical circuit established on a railway track to detect the presence of trains or other vehicles.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
