A recent video has gone viral, showcasing trains running on railway tracks with visible fires burning along them. This unusual sight has sparked a wave of debates and discussions across social media platforms. The video, originally shared by the account @barefactsofficial, shows a railway track in Chicago where small fires are strategically lit to address a crucial issue: preventing train derailments in extreme cold.
The practice of lighting fires on the tracks is part of a method used to combat the problems caused by icy conditions. During harsh winter weather, ice and snow can accumulate on railway tracks, particularly around switches. This can lead to malfunctions in the track switches, which are crucial for directing trains safely. When ice forms on these switches, it can disrupt their operation, potentially leading to train delays or even derailments.
To counteract this problem, gas-powered heaters are placed at various points along the tracks. These heaters need to be manually ignited and maintained to keep the switches and tracks free from ice. The small fires visible in the video are part of this process, helping to fuel these heaters. The design of the railway system ensures that the fires do not pose a danger to the trains passing over them. Despite the flames, trains can maintain their speed and continue their journey safely.
The use of these fires is an innovative solution to ensure that trains run smoothly even in the face of severe winter conditions. The melting ice ensures that train switches function properly, allowing trains to reach their destinations on time. The video, which has amassed over 247,000 views, highlights how Chicago addresses the challenges of winter with creative engineering solutions. Many viewers have commented on the video, noting the importance of keeping track switches from freezing to prevent accidents and ensure smooth rail operations.
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