Point Machines

Question 1

What are the two different kind of hand operated point machines?

Answer 1

Willett Spring Activated (WSA)

Coates Cushion Weighted (CCW)

Question 2

What are the two different types of Remote Controlled Point Machines?

Answer 2

DCPM - Dual Controlled
(Mainly found in ATC)

EHPM - Electro Hydraulic
(Mainly found in ABS)

Question 3

What is the purpose of a DCPM and a EHPM

Answer 3

To enable points to be operated either remotely by signaller, or in case of failure, locally by a driver under instructions of a signaller

Question 4

What two levers does a DCPM have?

Answer 4

Selector Lever:
- Motor (signaller)
- Hand (Driver)

Hand Throw Lever
- “N” Normal (for Mainline)
- “R” Reverse (for Diverge)

For DCPM only, you may be asked to go back after you have passed and put the Selector Lever back to Motor

Question 5

What do you do if the Hand Throw Lever is in the correct position?

Answer 5

You move it to the opposite position and then back again.

Ie move it back and forward until the locking mechanism is fully engaged

Question 6

What are the two different ways you can manually secure points?

Answer 6

Point Clip - placed under rail head

Hand Locking Bar - jams the points closed.

Question 7

How do you operate an EHPM?

Answer 7

Power Manual Switch
- Power - Signaller
- Manual - Driver

Directional Lever
- Normal (mainline)
- Centre
- Reverse (diverge)

Pump handle socket with pump handle. Either retractable or located in the vicinity.