1. What is a Switch Angle Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the switch angle (divergence angle) based on the heel divergence and length of the tongue rail.

Purpose: It helps railway engineers and technicians calculate the proper angle for railway switches to ensure safe and efficient train operations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \alpha \) — Switch angle (radians or degrees)
• \( d \) — Heel divergence (meters)
• \( L_t \) — Length of tongue rail (meters)

Explanation: The inverse sine function calculates the angle whose sine equals the ratio of heel divergence to tongue rail length.

3. Importance of Switch Angle Calculation

Details: Proper switch angle calculation ensures smooth train movement through switches, reduces wear on rails and wheels, and prevents derailments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heel divergence and tongue rail length in meters. Both values must be > 0. Results are shown in both radians and degrees.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is heel divergence?
A: Heel divergence is the distance between the running faces of stock rail and gauge face of the tongue rail at the heel of the switch.

Q2: What's a typical tongue rail length?
A: Tongue rail length varies by railway standard but typically ranges from 3 to 15 meters depending on the switch type and application.

Q3: Why show results in both radians and degrees?
A: Radians are mathematically precise, while degrees are more intuitive for practical applications and field measurements.

Q4: What does the ±5% tolerance mean?
A: It indicates the acceptable measurement variation for input values in field conditions.

Q5: How does switch angle affect train operations?
A: Larger angles allow higher divergence but may cause more wear and impact, while smaller angles provide smoother transitions but less divergence.

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