Gradient (Grade)
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The slope or incline of a railway track, expressed as a percentage or ratio (e.g., 1 in 40 means 1 metre rise over 40 metres of track). Steep gradients limit train weight and speed; most mainlines stay below 2.5%, while mountain railways may exceed 7%. Rack-and-pinion systems are used for gradients beyond the adhesion limit of conventional wheels on rail.
Related Terms
🛤️ Track & Infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
Gradient is a term used in the railway industry. Understanding this concept helps travelers navigate train services, schedules, and ticketing more effectively. See the full definition above for details.
Knowing what Gradient means can help passengers plan their journeys, understand announcements, and make informed decisions about routes, fares, and service types when traveling by train.
Several railway terms are closely related to Gradient. You can explore related concepts in the sidebar or browse the full TrainFYI glossary to deepen your understanding of rail terminology.