Some people call it simply model train diorama, other call it micro model railway layout, shunting layout or shelf layout. Whatever the correct term may be, the German model railroader Heiko Wendler constructed a highly detailed model railroad layout depicting a quarry where ore is loaded onto trains. The model rail layout has a width of 130 cm and a depth of 30 cm.

In this small area we discover, in addition to the shunting operations, switching locomotives, diesel locomotives, an engine shed and a diesel filling station. At the center of attention, there is the large loading facility made by manufacturer Walthers (“Coaling Tower”), that allows bulk goods wagons or bulk freight wagons to be filled.

On the left side is a segment turntable, on the right side is the entrance and exit to the fiddle yard and in the background you can see the quarry with conveyor belts. A panoramic picture is also installed on the rear wall, which ensures a perfect visual depth effect.

The miniature world in 1/87 scale is called “The Gnat Shack IV” and reflects the railroad era of the 1960s in Germany. The track material used for the shunting layout was made by manufacturer Tillig. Furthermore, each locomotive is equipped with automatic uncouplers made by manufacturer Uhlenbrock. The points or switches are set by hand. The micro model railway layout is controlled by analog speed controllers, type SFR2000 made by manufacturer Heisswolf.

Heiko Wendler
https://www.thegnatshack.com/thegnat...

Pilentum Television
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