Backshunt Explained

A backshunt is a railway track configuration in situations where a change in (almost opposite) direction is required and a traditional curve cannot fit.^[1]

There are two main applications of a backshunt.

1. To climb or drop a steep incline using a zig zag^[2]
2. To change direction on to a parallel track, often used in industrial sidings.^[3]

Example Backshunts

• Part of the old Cleator and Workington Junction Railway was maintained in Rowrah as a backshunt from Rowrah Head Quarry on to the Whitehaven, Cleator and Egremont Railway.^[4]

See also

• Headshunt

Notes and References

1. Book: Last Train to Paradise: Journeys from the Golden Age of New Zealand Railways . Graham Hutchins . 2011 . 72 . 9781927147290 . Exisle Publishing.
2. The Birmingham New Water Works . Crespi . A.J. . 1900 . The New Century Review . 8 . 47 . 358–366.
3. Book: Principles and Practices of Modern Coal Mining . R. D. Singh . 2005 . 647 . 9788122409741 . New Age Publishing.
4. Book: The Track Of The Ironmasters - A History Of The Cleator And Workington Junction Railway . W. McGowan Gradon . 2016 . 9781473353190 . 23 . Read Books.