Skip to main content
2 of 2
edited tags
hazzey
  • 10.7k
  • 11
  • 44
  • 95

Why do trains use the same wheels for staying on track and propulsion?

Trains where originally designed to keep the train on track. At the time trains where pulled by horses and used to transport coal (and such) out of mines. The two functions have very different requirements:

  • Keep the train on track
  • Push the train forward
    How effective would a solution be to push/pull the train forward that pulls on a serrated track?
    Or some other surface that provides far more grip/traction?
MrFox
  • 121
  • 3