GME: GNOME MINIATURE ENGINEERING: Decks

Bridges for G scale, O scale, and larger scale model railways

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GARDEN RAILWAY BRIDGES: Gnome Miniature Engineering structures are hand built from laser cut, brake formed parts, and assembled by traditional solid riveting. They capture the proportions of full size bridges, but are multi-scale working structures for small railways rather than exact scale models. The design and construction allow us to build custom bridges to your own requirements at a reasonable cost where standard parts can be used.

Our standard bridges are built for year round operation outdoors, so corrosion resistant materials are used throughout. They are ready to use, painted or unpainted, except for the construction of the bridge piers and installation of the track by the customer. They can be used with track from 16.5mm gauge for 0n30 to 63.5mm for Gauge 3.

G SCALE BRIDGES: plate girder bridges and underslung trusses for G and larger scales.

O SCALE BRIDGES: plate girders, through and underslung trusses, and operating bascules.

SPECIAL STRUCTURES We are now working on specials to be used for displaying model locomotives up to 1:8 scale, 7 1/4 inch (184 mm) gauge, and will be building the heavier versions in mild steel - more information coming soon.

EDUCATIONAL MODEL STRUCTURES: All truss bridges are available as educational models to demonstrate the principles and properties of pin jointed structures. These will normally be supplied without paint finish or decks. Material and section data will be made available.

The catalogue number (TR32 etc) indicates the type and length of the bridge deck in inches. For prices, availability, installation drawings and enquiries about custom designs,
please contact us at gme@bell.net

Updated on 11th May 2012 - picture added
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09 May 2011

Decks

Bridge prices include timber decks consisting of transverse timbers with longitudinal guard timbers. They are assembled with brass nails, and cleats secure the deck to the structure.

0 scale decks are basswood, either stained to resemble fresh creosote, or with a simulated weathered appearance. They can be supplied in red cedar for outdoor use at a small extra cost.

This illustrations show four different red cedar decks that have been weathering for up to six years.

(above) L-R: 6 years exposure, no stain, no preservative; 6 years, stain with preservative; 5 years, stain with preservative; 3 years, stain with preservative.

(above)L-R: 3 years weathering with stain and preservative; new, stain with preservative; new, no finish. They are exposed to sun, rain, snow, salt, cats, raccoons, squirrels and birds.

The standard large scale decks are red cedar, stained or unstained. For Gauge '1' the transverse timbers are 5 inches (127 mm) and for 'G' they are 6.4 inches (162 mm) long, corresponding to roughly 13 feet (3,962 mm).

All decks can be supplied with short extensions to cover the gap between the bridge and the adjoining structure. Decks designed to your own requirements are also available.