Discussions of the pros and cons of standard gauge vs smaller gauges in the DLR thread got me wondering, how compatible are road-rail vehicles (rrvs) with tram and metro systems? are there any concerns about wheel profile compatibilty with the points and crossings and/or the track gutters? or are the speeds so low it doesn't matter?
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how compatible are rrvs with tram/metro systems?
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edwin_m
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Vehicles with a tram wheel profile would most likely derail on railway switches and crossings (smaller back to back measurement).
Vehicles with a railway wheel profile couldn't operate on grooved rail and would most likely derail on tramway switches and crossings (larger wheel flange).
Metrolink Altrincham and Bury lines are a bit different, as they have a special wheel profile and modified check rails and can accept standard heavy rail wheels.
So a RRV has to have wheel profiles suitable for the system it works on. I imagine it would be fairly easy to swap the wheels if needed.
Vehicles with a railway wheel profile couldn't operate on grooved rail and would most likely derail on tramway switches and crossings (larger wheel flange).
Metrolink Altrincham and Bury lines are a bit different, as they have a special wheel profile and modified check rails and can accept standard heavy rail wheels.
So a RRV has to have wheel profiles suitable for the system it works on. I imagine it would be fairly easy to swap the wheels if needed.
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