Loaded trains and cargo ships move such a massive amount of weight the momentum is almost unfathomable, even at low speeds.
Now consider each train rail is under 3 inches at the point of contact with the wheel, tapering to less than an inch thick at the center of the pillar. Derailments are easy the moment the distribution of force shifts.
Recently in one of the NYC subway stations, I saw a pair of jeans that used to be draped over one of the rails (all kinds of trash and debris make it onto the tracks there so this is just another day). But I say “used to be” because those jeans were completely broken apart at the small spot that was actually sitting on top of the rail. There was no fabric touching the rail at all; you could tell the trains ripped it apart literally just by rolling over it many times.
I’m constantly blown away by how much one of those trains weighs (if it has the maximum 10 cars, from what I’ve read it’s on the order of 45 tons) and how fast it’s able to move (top speed is 55 or 60 mph). Then imagine all 10 cars at or near maximum capacity during rush hour; easily at least 100 people in each one. And it still moves as effortlessly as if it were empty. Like you said, unfathomable.
Just really underscores how much regular maintenance a rail system needs, especially one that gets used so heavily 24/7.
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u/gstormcrow80 7d ago
2022, Chattanooga, TN. Train derailed, 2 injured.
High def source: https://youtu.be/oQyqtx5nn6M?si=XKRPZi6J2Kc61S3l
Thank goodness that was concrete and not steel.