Network Rail New Measurement Train facts for kids
The New Measurement Train (NMT) is a special train used by Network Rail in Great Britain. It helps engineers check how good the rail tracks are. This information is super important for keeping trains safe and on time! The NMT helps decide which parts of the track need fixing.
The NMT was made from parts of a High Speed Train (HST). It uses Class 43 power cars and Mark 3 coaches. This amazing train can check all the main railway lines across Great Britain in just two weeks!
Contents
What Does the NMT Do?
The New Measurement Train acts like a giant mobile eye for the railways. It travels along the tracks at high speeds, checking for any problems.
Why Track Checks are Important
Checking the tracks is super important for everyone's safety. If tracks are not in good shape, trains could have a bumpy ride or even get damaged. The NMT helps prevent accidents and makes sure your train journey is smooth and safe.
How the NMT Works
The NMT is packed with special equipment. It uses lots of sensors, cameras, and lasers to scan the tracks. These tools can find tiny cracks, bumps, or places where the track isn't perfectly straight.
- Lasers measure the shape and position of the rails.
- Cameras take pictures to look for damage or worn-out parts.
- Sensors check how smooth the ride is, looking for any bumps.
All this information is collected by computers on the train. Engineers then look at the data to see if any repairs are needed.
The NMT's Design
The New Measurement Train looks a lot like the famous InterCity 125 High Speed Trains. That's because it was built using parts from them!
From Passenger Train to Super Checker
The NMT uses the powerful Class 43 power cars at each end. These are the same engines that pull regular passenger HSTs. The middle coaches are Mark 3 coaches, but they have been changed inside to hold all the special measurement gear. This means the NMT can travel very fast, just like a passenger train, which helps it cover a lot of ground quickly.
Related pages
- Doctor Yellow – measurement trains in Japan
Images for kids
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Class 43 HST New Measurement Train in operation on the Settle-Carlisle line
