Forming curves using mild steel bar rail is perfectly achievable with the right approach. This guidance explains how to bend bar rail for large and tight-radius curves, when pre-rolling is advisable, and the importance of proper support, gauge widening, and ongoing track maintenance.

A friendly introduction to what gauge widening is, why miniature railways use it, and how the PNP Railways track system makes it simple to build smooth-running curves. Gauge widening might sound like a specialist railway engineering term, but the principle is simple: trains run more smoothly through curves when the rails are set slightly further apart. On miniature railways, especially 5" and 7¼" gauge, locomotives often have limited side-play and relatively rigid wheelbases. On tight curves,...

A detailed look at Keith Jarman’s scratch-built 5-inch gauge model of Harmans Cross station, proudly displayed by the Northampton Society of Model Engineers at the Midlands Model Engineering Show. Built using a PNP 5" True Scale Display Track Kit, this impressive project showcases creativity, craftsmanship and railway heritage. Read the full case study and discover our limited-time Black Friday offer on display track kits.