What is this piece of equipment?

[docramage]

Hi everyone.

I've had a modest interest in railtrack for > 50y, but saw something yesterday I didn't understand.

Under the edge of the platform, on the vertical wall, there are a series of what look like sliders on an audio mixing desk - but much bigger. I'm not sure if they are actually connected to a potentiometer, or are merely adjustable to indicate - perhaps - track height.

Would be interested if anyone can tell me. I attach a photo

many thanks

Philip

[johnmoly]

I also have seen the same item and tried to figure it out. Searches on internet have been fruitless, mainly because I don't know what they are called !.

[swisstrains]

I believe they are known as track datum plates and they are used to indicate various measurements such as platform height above rail, distance from rail and even cant if on a bend. They will indicate if the track has crept whilst in use and can be used as a reference when carrying out tamping etc.

[docramage]

Excellent work - track datum plates they are.

See attached - this one is a bit cleaner than the one I found . . .


Many thanks

Philip

[Ploughman]

On Platforms they should be fitted every 10 metres along the face and at the Ramp top.
On curved platforms they may be fitted at 5m intervals.
The Red Block may be changed to a Green block at some locations.
This is when instead of either being installed to a standard clearance or to what is existing now.
The block will be green when the track alignment has been designed specifically for that location and may be tighter than a standard clearance figure.