Model Railroading > Running on dc only ( a question about curve speed )

Assuming that every 2' you have power wires going into your track. 
also assume that you do not change ( ever ) the amount of power going into the track. 
Will / should the speed of the train remain the same all the way around the layout or should / will the train be slower going through the curves ?

the curves in question are 24"-30"
always 3 axle trucks. 

tia for your response 

Jon Fink
Schenectady, NY



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/08/24 06:25 by Highhood.

Feeder wires are for that reason. The train will not slow down as it gets further from the power source.

Victor Baird

I would say that a little slowing through a curve would be expected due to friction from the outside wheel flanges rubbing on the inside of the railhead. This wouldn't be electrically related, just normal dynamics. If the slowdown is significant, check to make sure all wheel sets are in gauge and that the trucks swivel freely. 

Unlike DCC, successful DC operation does not require power feeders every two feet. 

Art House

 

aehouse Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Unlike DCC, successful DC operation does not
> require power feeders every two feet. 
>
> Art House
>
>  

Doesn't require it but it's a pretty good electrical practice.

You might not require it every two feet, but I put a pair on every 3 ft, piece of flex track, even if the joints are soldered.  It's good practice.

Victor

I built my DC layout feeding every 3tf section or placing jumpers at every joint (other than insulated of course)  Certainly not every 2 feet.
I've never had any issues with trains slowing down.
zr190

We apply a feeder to each separate length of rail and do not rely on rail joiners to carry any current.  In cases where there are several short lengths we will solder the joints solid. Joints on curves are often soldered as well to maintain curvature but very rarely would that involve more than three lengths of flex track.