On Tuesday, 23 May 2017 7:43 PM, Geoff Brown wrote--
Would the installation of boom gates at the Elliot Ave/ tram level crossing prevent future collisions? The Glenelg tramway uses them as does our Port Melbourne light rail just before the terminus.

One of the important reasons for using boom gates [i.e. those which close the approach lane only]is to deter impatient road vehicle drivers from crossing if a second train [or tram]is closely approaching and is not seen by the driver.

This feature is important on the Glenelg tramway on which trams run at close to railway speeds. On a street tramway, speeds are lower but the potential risk from an approaching ‘second tram’ still exists. Short of providing booms, some ‘eye catching’ warning would be appropriate at risky crossings.

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A few decades ago the traffic lights were installed when the long time practice of cars giving way to crossing trams broke down. Boom gates would seem to be the next logical step. Any thoughts?

Early boom gates were of timber construction and were fitted with red flashing warning lights on the arms. This was found to be a serious liability when a truck snagged a rising boom and pushed it into contact with high voltage overhead wires at a railway crossing. This resulted in massive destruction by fire of a complete signalling installation.

Some railway boom gates are now without red lights and the arm is attached to the mechanism so that the boom will drop to the roadway if impacted.

Noel Reed. Who worked many long days with colleagues in replacing the burned out signalling.

The lesson learned -- Traction power and signalling power do not mix well.

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From:TramsDownUnder@... [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Tuesday, 23 May 2017 7:43 PM
To:TramsDownUnder@...
Subject: [TramsDownUnder] Re: Route 58 Collision Monday

Would the installation of boom gates at the Elliot Ave/ tram level crossing prevent future collisions? The Glenelg tramway uses them as does our Port Melbourne light rail just before the terminus.

A few decades ago the traffic lights were installed when the long time practice of cars giving way to crossing trams broke down. Boom gates would seem to be the next logical step. Any thoughts?

Geoff

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Posted by: Geoff Brown browngeoffj@...>