Design a layout to ship abroad...

Paul Atkinson · 2006-01-14T15:46:58+00:00

Has anyone any experience with shipping layouts abroad? I'm currentlyat the design stage of a layout and certain restrictions are 'helping'the design process.First a bit of background, the layout will be an `n` gauge tail chaser,with a branch line station, goods facilities (shed, coal, loadingdocks?) and storage sidings. The layout will only be operated by oneperson.Size : For the physical size, a quick look at shipping companies revealthey do a 'golf club carton' packing case, 330mm x 230mm x 1190mm.First thoughts here that I could have a folding layout, say 600mm x1100mm that folds into a secure box to protect the layout duringtransit.Weight : I'd need to keep the layout light for two reasons, firstly forthe cost and secondly it has to be easily moved about. An open frameconstruction with a plywood casing seems likely here. Maybe some ofthat underflooring insulation used for laying laminate flooring couldprovide an acceptable track bed here.Temperature / Humidity : The layout is to be shipped to Australia fromthe UK. As a change in temperature (a difference of up to 50 degs inwinter) could well produce warping of the boards during transit, nevermind the track itself this is probably my main concern. I could sealthe boards, time the building of the layout so I ship in summer (thenthe temp difference wont be so much), and leave expansion gaps in thetrack. Still, I don't think I've covered all bases here.I would welcome any thoughts or comments on this interesting designproblem, it's certainly got my grey matter working.Thanks Paul

Jan 14, 2006 21 Replies

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Jane Sullivan 20 years ago

In message , Paul Atkinson writes

was he helped by a small brown bird with a red chest?

Just askin'

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Steve W 20 years ago

I expect it was a dark night. (I know, it is an awful pun - see below if you care!)

Fascinating

They are beautiful creatures, and you are a good man to do that.

Cheers, Steve

(Dark Knight=Batman)

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