3-Rail Model Train Layout

One of my favorite hobbies I have had since I was in elementary school has been model railroading. O-scale is the oldest and my personal favorite of all of the model track gauges because of its large size allowing for more detail on the models. It is distinct because of its prominent third rail that is electrified in the center of the track. In 2021 I remodeled my train layout by constructing a large 6x8 ft table out of 2x4 lumber and plywood. 

One of the biggest challenges is even voltage distribution along the track. Not only do the trains need to receive power from the track but the automated switches also need to receive adequate power in order to throw the switch. I constructed two terminal blocks underneath the table to distribute the power to many different sections of the track. In addition to this, I also soldered sections of the disconnectable track together with wires at contact points underneath the rails. This ensured that the mechanical connections did not affect the power distribution if the connection was bad or the contacts were dirty.

The automatic switches are wired underneath the table and allow the train route to be controlled remotely from a single point of operation. Due to the electrical distribution I discussed earlier adequate power is always available to the switches. This allows the train to be controlled even when it is moving slowly because the speed of the train is determined by track voltage. This project is still ongoing and in the future I plan on adding detailing to the surface by adding fake grass and laying foam insulation to create mountain ranges.