03.21 – USA Signalling

All the DLC and 2rd party add-ons contains signals as originated. The regulations still remains the same as defined by the original rules, regulations and restrictions at they has been governed by the particular country. Each country has their own restrictions and rules.

A typical USA signal bridge.

Taking a closer look and all the signals after study are basically the same and quite equal to each other, but the design of appearances of much different, the aspects remains basically the same

All the common and most basic signal aspects are shows as far as necessary and needed within TS2015. It should be hugh to pay attention to all signal systems in the world. while the most signalling aspects around the world are plainly based at the signal system of the heritage signal and rail system of the British Railway companies

First important issues what you need to know how to drive on signals.
There are 10 different types of signals.

1. Main signals

2. Approach and distance signals

3. Speed signals

4. Shuntong signals

5. Temporarely signals (maintenance, track work, infrastructure, etc)

6. Hand signals

7. Stationary signals (whistle posts, electrical traction, stopping markers. mileage / kilometre posts, etc)

8. Acoustic signals, (Bell, whistle, horn, typhoon, hand whistle, explosion signals)

9. Cab signals.

10. Radio / GPS signals (related to cab signalling)

This chapter mentions the signals as they are in use and regulated by the MORAC rules which is covering all rules from every railroad company throughout the USA and Canada

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Clear

Proceed Not exceeding normal Speed.

USA: NORAC 281

A driver of a GG1 receives a Clear Aspect

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Approach Limited

Proceed approaching the next signal at limited speed.

USA: NORAC 281b

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Limited Clear

Proceed at Limited speed until entire train clears all interlocking and spring switches,
then proceed at normal speed.

USA: NORAC 281c

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Approach Medium

Proceed Approaching next signal at medium speed. (Max. 30 Mph.)

USA: NORAC 282:

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Advanced Approach

Proceed prepared to stop at the second signal. Trains exceeding Limited Speed must begin reduction to limited speed as soon as the engine passes the Advanced Approach Signal.

NORAC 282a:

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Meduim Clear

Proceed at medium speed until entire train clears all interlocking and spring switches, proceed at normal speed.

USA: NORAC 283:

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Approach Slow

Proceed approaching the next signal at Slow Speed.

Trains exceeding Limited Speed must begin reduction to limited speed as soon as the engine passes the Approach Signal

USA NORAC 284:

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Approach

Proceed prepared to stop at the next signal.

Trains exceeding Medium Speed must begin reduction to Medium Speed as soon as the engine passes the Approach Signal. 

USA NORAC 285:

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Medium Approach

Proceed prepared to stop at the next signal

Trains exceeding Medium Speed must begin reduction to Medium Speed as soon as the Medium Approach signal is clearly visible. 

USA NORAC 286:

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Slow Clear

Proceed at Slow Speed until entire train clears interlocking limits or turnouts, then proceed at Normal Speed.

In CSS territory with fixed automatic block signals, trains not equipped with operative cab signals must approach the next signal at Medium Speed once they have left interlocking limits.

USA NORAC 287:

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Slow Approach

Proceed prepared to stop at the next signal. Slow Speed applies within interlocking limits or through turnouts, then Medium Speed applies.

USA NORAC 288:

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Restricting

Proceed at Restricted Speed until the entire train has:
1. Passed a more favourable fixed signal. or
2. Entered non-signalled DCS territory. or
3. Passed a location where a more favourable cab signal was received.

USA NORAC 290:

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Stop and Proceed

Stop, then proceed at Restricted Speed until the entire train has:
1. Passed a more favourable fixed signal. or
2. Entered non-signalled DCS territory or
3. Passed a location where a more favourable cab signal was received.

Where a letter G (grade marker) or a letter R (restricting marker) is displayed in addition to number plate as part of these aspects, freight trains may observe the signals as though restricting, Rule 290, were displayed.

USA NORAC 291:

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Stop Signal

Stop before the signal.

The signal is not allowed to pass unless the signal can not be cleared. The Signaller will hand over a confirmed and signed warrant to pass the signal at danger. When the signal is too far from the signal box, the driver contacts the signalman to receive clearance by telephone or radio. 

USA NORAC 292:

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