Why Do Trains Speed Up at Night? Factors That Affect Their Performance
Why Do Trains Speed Up at Night? Factors That Affect Their Performance
During nighttime hours, the frequency of trains decreases considerably, enabling passenger trains to operate seamlessly without any delays or disruptions.
Everyone experiences travel in their lives, and many of us hold a particular fondness for train journeys. Yet, have you noticed that trains often increase their speed at night compared to during the day? Have you ever considered the reasons behind this phenomenon? Let’s explore this together.
Basically, trains receive significantly fewer signals at night compared to the daytime making it possible for the train to run faster.
The reduction in the number of trains on the network enhances the efficiency of nighttime signaling. The presence of continuous green signals enables trains to sustain consistent high speeds, in contrast to daytime operations, which necessitate frequent modifications to regulate traffic flow.
Besides, less maintenance during the night allows trains to pick up speed. Lower nighttime temperature considerably reduces track friction, helping trains run much faster and more smoothly.
Lower temperatures at night contribute to the stabilization of railway tracks. Throughout the day, heat leads to thermal expansion, which may require trains to operate at reduced speeds. However, during the night, the tracks maintain their stability, facilitating smoother operations.
Throughout the day, railway tracks experience high traffic from passenger trains, freight services, and shuttle operations, resulting in numerous stops. However, at night, the volume of trains decreases considerably, enabling passenger trains to operate more efficiently and without delays.
Daytime trains make stops at various stations to serve local passengers. In contrast, during nighttime operations, many smaller stations are bypassed, leading to fewer stops and a higher average speed.
Long-distance night trains typically receive priority to adhere to tight schedules. This preference allows them to minimize stops and maximize speed, ensuring timely arrivals at their destinations.
Freight trains typically operate during the night, which reduces congestion on the tracks for passenger services. This efficient scheduling is advantageous for both freight and passenger trains, as it minimizes delays for each.
