Train Driver Track and Infrastructure Knowledge 1

Question 1

What is the standard gauge rail width used on most US mainline railroads?

Accepted Answer

4 feet 8.5 inches

Answer

Standard gauge in the United States is 4 feet 8.5 inches, the distance between the inner faces of the two rails.

Question 2

What is 'superelevation' on a curved railroad track?

Accepted Answer

The raising of the outer rail above the inner rail to counteract centrifugal force

Answer

Superelevation raises the outer rail on curves to counteract the outward centrifugal force and allow safer higher-speed operation.

Question 3

What does a 'diamond crossing' refer to in railroad infrastructure?

Accepted Answer

An at-grade intersection where two railroad tracks cross each other

Answer

A diamond crossing is a fixed track structure where two separate railroad lines cross at grade, creating a diamond shape.

Question 4

What is a 'frog' in railroad trackwork?

Accepted Answer

The V-shaped casting at a turnout that allows wheel flanges to cross the intersecting rail

Answer

A frog is the track component at a turnout where two rails cross, allowing wheels to pass through the intersection of the diverging routes.

Question 5

What does FRA Track Class 4 allow in terms of maximum operating speed for passenger trains?

Accepted Answer

80 mph

Answer

FRA Track Class 4 permits a maximum passenger train speed of 80 mph under 49 CFR Part 213.

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