Train Photography

[jmp883]

A few minutes later I heard on the scanner why the trains were running at reduced speed. There was a track circuit at MP 35 which was affecting the automatic signals in the area. The signal systems, both automatic signals and interlocking signals, are powered by very low current in the rails. The train wheels and axles complete the circuit and logic and computer software will display the appropriate signals trackside and on the dispatchers consoles. Based on my experience when I worked at NJT as a train dispatcher automatic signals will go to red if there is a track circuit (meaning a short, or open, in the signal system). As long as the dispatcher knows that the track ahead is clear he can then authorize train movement past the red signals verbally via train order. The trains are required to run at a reduced speed in order to stop short of any obstruction until they are clear of the train order-authorized limits.



No sooner did the Q-164 clear MP 40.1 at 0945 hrs when the dispatcher then gave a train order to the Q-439 which was holding at MP 43. At 0957 hrs the Q-439 came around the corner, crossed the trestle, and started up the slight grade onto the Island.