Why do tram cables zig zag?

Why are the tram's overhead cables positioned to make a zigzag, rather than straight line? Answer: The metal structure on the roof of the tram, the pantograph, rubs against the cable as the tram moves forward. If the cable was in a straight line, it would rub the same point on the pantograph, which would begin to fray.



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Arcing flashes happen when the arm that extends from the train, called the pantograph, loses contact with the power cable above, or the catenary. That loss of contact is what causes the loud bang and the sparks, and causes the trains to lose power.

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A pantograph (or pan or panto) is an apparatus mounted on the roof of an electric train, tram or electric bus to collect power through contact with an overhead line.

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Overhead power lines can carry more than 500,000 volts. Touching one of the lines can provide a path for electricity to the ground and hurt or kill you. Assume all power lines are energized and dangerous.

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Ditch lights, also known as auxiliary lights or crossing lights, are additional lights at the front and sometimes rear of a locomotive or cab car that are positioned closer to the track than normal headlights. They are used to make trains easier to spot, for safety.

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A Funicular Railway is just that, fun. Also known as an inclined plane or cliff railway, a funicular railway normally solves the problem of transporting people up extremely steep slopes. They've been used for hundreds of years and are an extraordinary feat of ingenuity.

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While collisions with cars are the most common form of tram accident, cyclists and pedestrians are the group most at risk of death during tram collisions. Cyclists may experience a loss of control if bicycle tires get jammed in tramway tracks.

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Missed Tap Off Cost If you don't have a default set on your card and you forget to tap off at the end of your trip, you'll be charged the fare to the last stop on the train line or bus route and with your fare type and any applicable loyalty discounts applied.

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