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Plexiglas Introduction

Very early on in the program, it was found that kids cannot keep their hands off of the rolling stock and scenery. It's irresistible that they want to touch them as they go by. There are only two ways to prevent this, using ropes with stantions or Plexiglas. We have chosen the latter. Most modules use a 48" by 1" by 3/32" thick piece purchased from Tapp Plastic in Bellevue. It's easy to find, turn east off I 405, onto 520 and immediately get off on Northrup way to the right and turn right (west) on Northrup. You can see Tapp Plastic off to the south form 520. See below for attachment ideas.

A constant problem has been Plexiglas breakage, usually from kids pulling on or falling while holding onto the Plexiglas. The breaks have always occurred where there was a hole drilled. Plexiglas is now considerably more expensive than it used to be. A good list if ideas has been developed to prevent breakage, some for the module owner and some for the group.

Owner Options

1. Use the next thicker Plexiglas (it does cost more). Most people use 3/32", a few use 1/4"
2. Drill the holes (if any) with the special drill that Norm has. Use high speed and low feed.
3. Use large "fender" washers on the bolts (paint black) or possibly a board across the front.
4. Drill a tiny hole at the end of any cracks to prevent the crack from spreading.
5. Norm has some glue for Plexiglas that may come in handy for some repairs.
6. Use Velcro to hold the Plexiglas on (recommended by Tapp). This eliminates holes and is much faster to put on and off. The Velcro may cost a little less than the thicker Plexiglas option. To facilitate this, bulk Velcro can be used in attachment which you can purchase from Norm. The 16' of Velcro (4 strips needed) would cost $7.00 (our cost).

Group Options

1. Install small channels or "H" shaped strips between panes to distribute the load.
2. Eliminate the public seats that can be dragged up alongside the layout. Ask the show personel to remove them.
3. Post appropriate signs asking parents to keep their kids off the Plexiglas.
4. Assign members to "watch duty" who can also answer questions. Hour shifts would be work well.
5. More ideas are welcome.

Mission Statement

Promote participation, sharing, railroad history, and the NMRA/4 Div.
Entertain and inform people about the hobby.
Help charities, community organizations, and other railroad groups.

NMRA

Introduction to module standards
link to NMRA introduction to module standards and recommended practices

Module standards
link to NMRA Module standards, in the standard gauges

Module recommended practices
link to NMRA Module recommended practices, in the standard gauges

Module electrical standards
NMRA Module standards, in the standard gauges

Module electrical recommended practices
link to NMRA Module recommended electrical practices

Last updated:

April 11, 2008