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easement

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Definition: An easement is a curve on a railroad track laid in a parabolic curve; one whose radius becomes progressively smaller as the train approaches the mid-point in the curve curve and larger as the train moves away from the mid-point. An easement reduces the space required to turn a railroad train while insuring that the cars' couplers will not reach their limits and lock up, potentially derailing the train.

In model railroading, easements are made using flex track. Easements can also be simulated using sectional track by placing curved sections with a larger radius on the outside of the curves, and sections with progressively smaller radii toward the center of the curve.

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