How are train signals controlled?

Usually the signals are manually controlled from a remote office. Outside CTC limits, a sophisticated ABS system that can detect train direction also will use them to protect movement between sidings. Such a system is termed an Absolute Permissive Block System.



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Up until the 1980s, this system was also controlled by human operators. However, when computers started to become more commonplace, more automation was introduced. Nowadays, much of the rail signals are automated, and run thanks to a system called CBTC (Communications Based Train Control).

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Trains cannot collide with each other if they are not permitted to occupy the same section of track at the same time, so railway lines are divided into sections known as blocks. In normal circumstances, only one train is permitted in each block at a time. This principle forms the basis of most railway safety systems.

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The position of the train driver differs from that of the conductor in that the former is in charge of running the locomotive while the latter manages the cars, including the crew, passengers and their activities.

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While rail workers have had their pay frozen in the same period, DfT data shows that the private train operators made £310 million in taxpayer-funded profits between March 2020 and September 2022.

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The railways use a train detection systems which can tell signallers exactly where every train is and how fast they are going. There are also systems that can automatically stop trains if the driver doesn't take the correct course of action or passes through a red signal.

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Defective or damaged track circuits and axle counters are leading causes of signal failures. Damage to these components can be caused by moisture penetration, cuts, exposure to high temperatures, or rusting. In some cases, the damage may be caused by cable thieves who have pilfered cables for their copper content.

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Automation of London Underground rolling stock has been partially implemented since the introduction of automatic train operation on the Hainault to Woodford section of the Central line in 1964. It is currently in use on six lines. Transport for London plans to extend this to remaining lines by 2023.

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Driverless trains have been in operation on the Docklands Light Railway since it opened in 1987, though a train attendant is present to operate the doors and drive the train if needed.

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The average LNER train driver salary range is £30,000 to £70,000. The average TFL train driver salary range is £57,217 to £61,620. The average Scotrail train driver salary range is £50,659 to £56,245. The average Northern Rail train driver salary range is £40,104 to £57,546.

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Over-fatigued drivers and utility workers present a hazard. Waving means you're at least half awake and alert enough to notice a fellow laborer and therefore respond safely if something unexpected happens.

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Even after the passing of a long, heavy train at track speed the increase in temperature of the rail head will be 1–2 degrees centigrade at most. Measurable by infrared, but not really noticeable by touching the rail (which you shouldn't be doing, anyway).

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Do train drivers do the little wave when they pass each other like bus drivers do? Yes, they certainly do, and it's not limited to the engineers/drivers. Often, trainmen will lean out the window and give a verbal greeting as well as waving.

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