Hex-TRAK
is an exciting new concept in modular model railways. Smaller, simpler, and easier to store & handle than the larger T-TRAK Modules, but with larger radius curves and more space for scenery than the Kato 'MiniCircus' diorama modules, Hex-TRAK modules can be combined in many different ways to build large or small single track layouts.
Hex-TRAK modules are designed and manufactured by us for Train Trax
, the UK's leading online retailer of Kato N gauge model railway equipment, sets, rolling stock, unitrack, scenery and accessories.
In addition, we have collaborated with Justin Gonyea in the US, who documented his development of the concept on his YouTube channel, Tabletop Railroad. Together we have developed the idea further, and worked towards a common standard for Hex-TRAK modules.
The standard module geometry is based on 248mm straight track (Kato 20-000) and 216mm radius curves (Kato 20-170 & 20-171). Most Kato rolling stock will handle this, but due to the tight radius some larger stock, or stock from other manufacturers, may struggle. Please check compatibility/minimum recommended radii. Junctions are also possible, using the Kato 'Compact' 150mm radius points (though this will further limit the rolling stock that will happily traverse the modules).
Laser cut from high-quality 6mm MDF, the finished modules measure 248mm (across the flat edges) by approximately 286mm (point-to-point).
Product Range
There are 4 products available:
1. Standard Modules:
These are supplied in packs of 3, with an overall thickness of 12mm. The surface is marked with the positions for track entry/exit at all 6 edges. Each module can be fitted with 248mm of straight track, a 60° section of 216mm radius curved track, or a junction. Alternatively they can be left without track, for purely scenic sections (for example, in the centre of a circle or oval).
2. Half-Hex Modules:
These are supplied in pairs, and can be used to save space at the ends of layouts. These modules can only be fitted with the 20-170 & 20-171 curves, the position of which is engraved on the surface. Being half of a standard module, the dimensions are approximately 286 x 124mm.
3. Double-Height Modules:
These modules allow for running on multiple levels. They can be fitted with the same track options as the standard modules, on each of the 2 levels. Entry & exit positions are marked on all 6 edges, as per the standard modules.
The top section is designed to be removable to allow access for track cleaning & maintenance, and can also be rotated relative to the lower level, to alter the configuration allowing more variation in track designs. The lower level is 12mm thick, and the distance between levels is 60mm (giving an overall thickness of 72mm). Supplied singly.
4. Embankment Modules:
These can be built in either straight or curved configurations. The supports for the upper level are designed in such a way as to allow not only scenic treatment as an embankment (as the name suggests) but also for track, roadways, or rivers to run underneath to make simple bridge sections. Supplied singly.
The above modules can be ordered either without track, or with a choice of straight/curved track as required. For junctions, you will need to order the track separately. Please see the item pages for available options.
Compatibility with Kato bridges, viaducts, and piers
The standard modules can be connected directly to Kato 248mm long single truss bridges, in place of straight modules, as the rail height of the track on the standard modules matches the rail height of the bridge pieces perfectly:
The double-height modules are spaced such that Kato bridges & viaducts can be placed between on the standard 50mm high piers (e.g. 23-017-1) mounted on top of a standard module:
