How do Grade Crossing activate

[Nick8564]

I was wondering how grade crossing signals were activated. Is it a block control thing or are switches placed on the rails? Thanks
Nick

 

[railohio]

The most basic systems use the train to complete a circuit across the rails which in turn triggers the lights and gates. A more advanced system is also available that takes in account train speed to better time the lowering of the gates.

 

[Nick8564]

Is there a website on the net somewhere that tells you how most railway equipment works?

 

[2-8-2]

I was going to post some information here, but I'm not exactly sure what you're looking for. I did a Google search for grade crossing signals and found several sources of information.

 

[h81627allegheny]

Some grade crossings with gates will also tell the Signal Maintainer the speed of the train across the crossing as well.

Dave