Owning a train horn, and caring for it.
Train horns have been used for over 50 years and are still used today. They provide loud warning signals to people, conductors, and animals. They are especially important when nearing a busy area. They are also used to pass signals between different train conductors, and other employees on the railroad. They consist of two main components: the diaphragm, and the nozzle piece. The N3 train horn was the first three chime horn offered.
Train horns function by using compressed air, on a scale from 125-140 pounds per square inch. Oscillation is the flow of air throughout the horn, and helps to produce the sound that we hear. Air application to the horn results in a vibration and waves of air flow outwards creating a loud whistling noise. The shape, and size determine the frequency and pitch of the horns noise. When train horns were first invented they were operated by using a pull cord or lever. Currently train horns are used by simple pressing a button. Train horns are not used solely for trains, in recent times they have become popular for use on trucks, SUVs, and other large vehicles. Many people use them on water craft for warning signals as well. Some people even collect them for their sentimental value, and their beauty. Suburban areas have banned uses of train horns in certain areas. They tend to disrupt quiet areas and anger the local citizens.
Are you interested in buying a Train Horn or Train Horn Kit? You better be ready to dish out the cold hard cash for it. They range from the low $200 to over $1000! Some even come in gold, and gold plated.
Setting up a train horn is a complicated process, and also requires a bit of precision. Importance is placed upon choosing the correct air compressor to generate the sound, and the right placement. A mistake in any of these categories can be lethal, and is highly dangerous. It is advisable to have an air compressor of 20 gallons or higher. This allows for a surplus, and keeps you from running back and forth to a gas station to fill it up.
When repairing your train horn keep the size, manufacturer, and age in mind. Older train horns that are rare, need to be cared for in a delicate manner. One mistake can ruin their value significantly. Professionals that restore train horns will fix yours up for a small fee. Train horns of all types are subject to abnormalities at some point in time. The two major components of a train horn are hollow, so there is plenty of open space for all sorts of things to collect. Sometimes the most unexpected things can appear inside, and cause sound problems. A danger is also posed here, because an animal could have made its home inside.
Closing Comments
In the end, train horns are fun, functional, and a popular collectible item. There are tons of options to choose from, and many different designs.