Modular baseboards for 16mm/ft

Latest information

(last modified Feb 2014)

The module standards are set put in Modular Layout Standards-1.pdf
A proposal for a balloon loop is described in R1697-Return loop.pdf

The main standards for the baseboards are summarised as follows:

Layout height	950mm to baseboard level, 960mm to rail top (with thread adjusters in mid position)
Board widths	450mm, 600mm, 750mm etc... (plus multiples of 150mm)
Board lengths	1200mm (double and half lengths acceptable)
Track centres	150mm from edge of board, subsequent tracks at 150mm centres
Minimum Radius	1697mm (5'6") on curved boards (large so that trains don't speed up too much when they hit the straight again.) Elsewhere, a minimum radius of 5', avoiding reverse curves.
Track	PECO SM32, to end 50mm back from the baseboard end
Clearances	width: 150mm; heigth: 200mm
Connecting boards	Pair of 75mm 'G' clamps underneath square ends. (see documents for details)

Note that clearances have increased from 135mm (w) and 195mm (h); these being, respectively the width of a VoR Swindon-built loco and the Diesel, 'Chattenden'

The clearances and curve radii may be violated if necessary (e.g. for creating an industrial scene) but the main running lines should be to spec for 'through' trains.

The Hampshire group confirmed that they will be modifying their layout, "Much Crymblyn", to be compatible with Rowlands Modules, so that it can be used as part of a larger layout.

Variations

Andy proposes using boards in the garden on open days to temporarily increase track length. These boards would require custom legs for this situation, but could be used at standard height for winter running in the garage, or at a meet-up.

Conversely, Ken, in Texas, would like to use the boards indoors in the summer when it's too hot (over 40°C) to play trains outdoors, and likes the idea of being able to keep his railway away from the ravages of frost and heatwave.

30 April 2013

Daniel and Gavin created two boards in time for the '16mm show' in Peterborough, as shown in these photos

Baseboards at the Peterborough show 2013

15 January 2013 - amendments:

Gareth constructed 2 boards; 1200mm x 450mm
The baseboard height is under discussion. 900mm is too low.

John Wenlock completing one of the first baseboards

Following some questions, Gareth suggested...

cater for electric supply; hence Peco SM32 track,
frame ends for clamping should be within a range of 10-20mm thick
Joining pieces of rail might best be made in a 'tolerance band' of sizes. 94, 96, 98, 100, 102, 104. Possibly colour coded/engraved below - Experience will tell.

Who?
Gareth Jones, John Wenlock and Steve Davies,

7 January 2013 -- Preliminary design

See Drawing 'ROWLAND'S MODULES - RETURN LOOP R1697 + INFO.pdf (7/1/13)

Loop radius 1697mm (just under 6ft)
Baseboards 75mm deep from top, G-clamped together
Peco SM32 track to end 50mm from end of board
Track centres for loops: 150mm
Baseboard top 900mm from floor. Later modified