TECHNICAL
STUFF about
our 7mm scale models of 3'
6" gauge prototypes (0-24.5)
As far as we know, we are the first manufacturer to
produce 7mm scale models of 3' 6" gauge prototypes, Australian
or otherwise. Not surprisingly, there were no existing modelling
standards, and no essential commercial items, such as wheels etc.,
readily available. So, we have made our own.
In an effort to avoid the nonsense of severely compromised and incompatible
standards prevalent in other scales/gauges, whilst retaining both
simplicity and practicality, we have looked carefully, tested ideas
and thought long and hard before choosing the standards to which
our kits will be produced.
In
the end, the decision was simple. We have used the correct gauge,
exactly. In 7mm scale, also commonly referred to as 0 scale, this
means the rails are 24.5mm apart, hence the 0-24.5 terminology.
This permits possible use in combination with either ordinary Finescale
32mm gauge, or ScaleSeven 33mm standards, should you wish to model
the dual- or triple-gauge track which can be found in parts of Australia.
Another benefit is that in 7mm scale, and with the correct rail
gauge, the loco frames are far enough apart to allow the fitting
of decent-sized motors. After all, some of these locomotives are
VERY large, and not at all like those used on UK-prototype narrow
gauge railways, or on the average logging, mining or sugarcane tramway.
We
have commissioned the production of finescale wheels specifically
designed to suit. For those interested, back to back dimensions
are 22mm, back to opposite flange 22.75mm. These run happily through
check rail flangeways of 1.4mm and will also accommodate a differing
crossing flangeway should you wish to model dual- or multi-gauge
track to either Gauge 0 Guild or Aus7 standards.
Track
availability is a more difficult matter. With the prototype being
of flatbottom rail (see below!)
construction, it is fairly easily handmade, using readily available
commercial components. To make trackbuilding easier, we will be
producing suitable track gauges. We are also looking at producing
some basic track components to speed the rather laborious task of
building plain track, and will be making available some simple pointwork
components and templates to aid construction. Whilst it is not possible
to cater for every taste or preference, we feel that a reliable,
simple-to-build system should be within everyone's reach and capabilities.
PARTS
 |
Available
now, in three sizes: our own exclusive and correctly profiled
flatbottom rail for modelling Australian prototype track in
7mm/O scale.
Full
details can be found on the What's
New page.
|
If you
are interested in modelling Australian railways in 7mm scale or
0 gauge, you may also be interested in joining the Aus7
Modellers Group and this discussion group:
7mmAusmodelling. |
