Schienenende

Schienenende refers to the termination point of a railway track. This can occur at stations, sidings, depots, or simply at the end of an operational line. The design and signaling associated with a schienenende are crucial for safe train operations. At passenger stations, schienenende points are typically marked by buffer stops or bumpers, designed to absorb the impact of a rolling stock if it overruns the intended stopping position. These buffer stops can range from simple physical barriers to more sophisticated hydraulic or pneumatic systems that provide a gradual deceleration.

In industrial settings or at sidings, a schienenende might simply be the point where the track ceases to exist or transitions into a different type of infrastructure. Freight yards often feature multiple sidings that terminate at various points for loading and unloading operations. The presence of a schienenende necessitates clear signaling to inform train drivers of the end of the track. This can include special signals, end-of-track markers, and comprehensive route knowledge requirements. Understanding and respecting the schienenende is a fundamental aspect of railway safety protocols, preventing accidents and damage to rolling stock and infrastructure.