Why Are Smoke Explosives Used on Train Rails?

Some technological innovations hidden on the dusty shelves of history may seem quite surprising and extraordinary compared to today’s standards. Explosives used on train tracks since the 1840s can easily be added to this list.

At that time, railways were still very new, trains were moving rapidly and attracting the attention of the mechanics, Managing train traffic safely was becoming a serious problem.

At this point, the device placed on the rails and exploded when it exploded came into play. a dense cloud of fog Special explosives were entering.

On a train journey, you suddenly find yourself in fog and you know this is for your safety!

In the mid-19th century, trains began to proliferate as a symbol of the Industrial Revolution. However, in a period when trains move so fast, drivers need to control their speed and stop when necessary It has become a huge challenge.

Crossings, intersections and dangerous points on railways, especially in foggy weather to serious accidents why it could happen. This situation pushed railway engineers to look for creative solutions.

One of the most popular methods used at the time was a train placed on the rails and the train passing over it. They were smoke bombs exploding.

railway fog

These explosives would suddenly create a dense fog at the point where the train passed, warning the drivers. explosion sound While it made the train aware of the approaching danger, the fog cloud that formed would indicate that the train was at a point where it should slow down or stop.

Since it was difficult to see warning signs such as signs and flags, especially in difficult weather conditions, such solutions for regulating train traffic were considered quite innovative at that time.

So these explosives are actually a kind of “early warning system” He was on duty.

In what situations is it preferred?

railway explosive

Even though we are talking about ancient times, this method is actually used in many parts of the world. is still preferred.

Its purpose is any train has been involved in an accident, has a breakdown, If visibility is blocked due to fog or snow or it is not possible to communicate with signal transmitters, fog explosives are placed on the rails to warn the approaching train.

The distance at which the explosives will be positioned varies depending on the purpose of signaling. For example, if a train broke down, the engineer would turn away from the broken train in the direction of the auxiliary train. 3 explosives at a distance of 300 meters should place.

Why is fog used?

fog explosive

Fog is a natural phenomenon that severely limits visibility and quickly attract the attention of the machinists It is a very effective method for.

Also fog is used to reduce the speed of trains. a natural barrier It creates. When the train slows down, it becomes easier for drivers to better understand the situation and avoid danger. This actually plays a critical role in preventing railway accidents.

Although today’s security systems on railways are much more advanced, this is not the case in the 1800s. simple but creative solutionIt also reveals how innovative the engineers of the period were.

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