HSTEd
Veteran Member
- Joined
- 14 Jul 2011
- Messages
- 16,701
Well as I understand it the Mark 3 OLE used above Weaver Junction on the WCML and on the entirity of the ECML was originally designed for speeds in the region of 100mph.
However as the OLE wasnt totally replaced (only upgraded to UK1, whatever that is) during the WCML rebuild even though 140mph speeds were expected at the time and that 140mph running was conducted on parts of both the WCML and ECML at varying times for testing purposes (APT and Cl91 trials) I would have to assume that it is capable of 140mph running fairly reliably.
So then, what is "UK1" that has apparently be installed as part of the WCML upgrade and how fast can you practically run trains on the Mark 3/3A/3B OLE without massive replacement?
By which I mean work more extensive than rewiring the line with stronger wire and possibly fitting heavier tension weights, Im talking about work on the cantilevers/headspans themselves and possibly even the support posts.
However as the OLE wasnt totally replaced (only upgraded to UK1, whatever that is) during the WCML rebuild even though 140mph speeds were expected at the time and that 140mph running was conducted on parts of both the WCML and ECML at varying times for testing purposes (APT and Cl91 trials) I would have to assume that it is capable of 140mph running fairly reliably.
So then, what is "UK1" that has apparently be installed as part of the WCML upgrade and how fast can you practically run trains on the Mark 3/3A/3B OLE without massive replacement?
By which I mean work more extensive than rewiring the line with stronger wire and possibly fitting heavier tension weights, Im talking about work on the cantilevers/headspans themselves and possibly even the support posts.
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