Hey Modutrak guys...

[sirenwerks]

...are plans for your curved modules available anywhere, like the straight modules is? I'm trying to rustle up a similar group in the Portland - Seattle corridor to model the shared mainline between the two, using your concept. Some more information would be helpful.

[w neal]

Highly recommend you make plans to visit them in person at the Naperville RPM. They are great guys. This is the best way to connect with them - in person.

[robert3985]

There's a photo of the underside of a corner module in the wiring literature at their website which would probably be an answer to how to build it with a bit of cogitation.  Doesn't look to be very difficult, but I'd recommend using the specified materials and construction techniques as they have been well thought out and time tested.

Cheerio!
Bob Gilmore

[sirenwerks]

Does anyone know what radius curves they use, at least. They're nice curves.

[mcjaco]

60" is the number that comes to mind.  I know our smaller curves are 36". 

[ryan_wilkerson]

Not being familiar with Modutrak standards, what are the differences between it and FreeMo-N?

[mcjaco]

http://www.modutrak.com/our-layout/our-layout/

[ryan_wilkerson]

And to compare...
http://www.wesleysteiner.com/free-moN/FreemoNStandards.pdf

Code 55 and other modern materials. Butt joints (no fitter tracks)
Modutrak: Digitrax, double track, 18x60 modules (corners look standard size too so the layout can be connected).
FreeMo-N is DCC, single track with double track option, any module size (freedom between the end plates) because ends aren't connected (layouts are typically configured with 2 or more return loops).
I'm sure there are many other differences. I just typed the above as I was reading through. Not a criticism of either standard.
The Modutrak layout always looks great!

[Sokramiketes]

I'll try to snap some corner module photos for you this weekend.  I have another under construction.

The basic construction is the same as a straight module, you just cut a curved top (the 1/4" plywood) instead of straight.  The sides, being two layers of 1/8" material laminated together, are just curved to fit the top. 

Our big corners are 60" radius to the outside of the module.  The largest we can get on a 5'x5' sheet of Baltic birch plywood.  Actual track radius is 53".

Medium corners are 39" radius, two in an S curve balance out a 5ft straight module on the other side of the layout.

We built one small 36" corner early on and it still makes an appearance every couple of shows.

[sirenwerks]

See, this helpful. First, I didn't know Baltic birch came in 5' sq sheets. And hearing more generates questions.like... What if I can't find birch sheet that big? I honestly thought the full curve was two or more modules. Are the curves banked and, if so, how so?  What's the cross brace spacing/placement?

[Missaberoad]

See, this helpful. First, I didn't know Baltic birch came in 5' sq sheets. And hearing more generates questions.like... What if I can't find birch sheet that big? I honestly thought the full curve was two or more modules. Are the curves banked and, if so, how so?  What's the cross brace spacing/placement?

Any lumberyard that caters to Cabinetmakers or fine woodworkers should have Baltic birch plywood...

Mike @Sokramiketes  I remember talk of a build manual, was it ever finished? I'm also interested in building some Modutrak based sections... 

[Bendtracker1]

Baltic Birch can and does come in 4'x8' sheets. Although it is a little harder to scare up.
I get mine for my shop through wholesalers.  If you can't find any on your own, you might try contacting a custom cabinet shop or custom woodworking shop and see if they can order some in for you.

[pdx1955]

There's a number of places in the Portland area where you can get baltic birch plywood from a quick search. Just don't be thinking regular AC plywood prices though, as I'm seeing anywhere from $50 to over 100 a sheet . Some of the price markups for smaller pieces such as 30 x 48" are still running over $30 each from suppliers. This may be one of those materials that's its best to lay a lot of dough out at once and buy a larger quantity for a smaller per piece price.

[sirenwerks]

I was just wowing at the 5x5 sheet availability. I'm not completely sold on the need for the top-side plywood, I was thinking foam on frame if the spline is in place. Just sayin'...

[Point353]

From an availability standpoint in the PNW, you might look into the feasibility of using ApplePly.
The birch plies are imported from Poland or Russia, but the product is manufactured in Eugene OR.
http://www.appleply.com/about.php
http://www.appleply.com/specifications.php
http://www.appleply.com/where_to_buy.php