Gauge | Types of Gauge | Factors Affect Selection of Gauge

Gauge

The clear horizontal distance between the inner faces of the two rails forming a track is known as gauge.

Types of Gauge

1. Broad Gauge

The clear horizontal distance between the inner faces of two parallel rails forming a track is 1676 mm (5’6’’). This is called as broad gauge.

2. Meter Gauge

The clear horizontal distance between the inner faces of two parallel rails forming a track is 1000 mm. This is called as meter gauge.

3. Narrow gauge

The clear horizontal distance between the inner faces of two parallel rails forming a track is 762 mm or 610. This is called as narrow gauge.

Factors affecting selection g gauge

1. Cost of construction

There is little increase in the initial cost if we select a wider gauge.

i) The cost of earthwork, ballast, sleeper, rail, etc. would increase with increase in gauge width.

ii) There is increase in acquisition of land for permanent track with increase in width of gauge

iii) The cost of rolling stock is independent of the gauge used. For the same volume of traffic

2. Volume and nature of traffic

It is evident with greater traffic volume and greater load carrying capacity; the trains should be run by a better traction technique or by better locomotive

3. Development of the area

Narrow gauge can be used to develop the less populated areas by joining the poor developed with developed areas.

4. Physical features of the country

Use of narrow gauge is common in hilly area where broad and meter gauge are not possible due to steep gradients and sharp.

5. Speed of movement

The speed of a train is almost proportion to the gauge. Speed is the function of diameter of wheel, which in turn is limited by the gauge. The wheel diameter is generally 0.75 times that of gauge. Lower speeds discourage the customers and so for maintaining high speed, the broad gauges are preferred.