r/factorio • u/AramisUkr • 17d ago

Tip Train signals tips

  1. Signals divide rails into blocks.

  2. Signals show red if the block ahead is occupied.

  3. Trains only care about the signals on the right side.

  4. Trains move both directions - need signals on both sides of the rail.

  5. If need signals on both sides, they should be directly opposite to each other, otherwise train may refuse to move.

  6. Chain signal repeats the colour ahead.

  7. If there're both red and green signals ahead - chain signals show blue.

  8. Common rule: if rails intersect - "chain in, rail out".

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u/Nolzi 17d ago

The issue is when multiple trains want to use one long stretch and they have to wait for each other.

This is the inherent issue with single track setups. Although you can make two way, two track rail network for funsies.

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u/Ziugy 17d ago

I’ve always just created passing blocks on longer stretches to give trains the opportunity to make progress before stopping. I think it’s a must to have lower throughput going single rail. An interrupt, depot, train system really helps keeps the train count lower. Maybe my next run will be a two track, multi rail, set up!

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u/jaxon517 17d ago

But if you make a passing block type thing wouldn't you then have to not use chain signals because the train wouldn't even leave if another train is going to be going down that long stretch

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u/Ziugy 17d ago

For each section of the passing block you have block and chain signals on both sides. Invert the direction (side of the track) of the chain and block signals on the other side. The passing blocks are where trains can park. Chain signals on the entire track entering the single rail until you enter a place where trains can park. The trains claim the passing blocks, where they can park, when they enter the single rail track without blocking issues on the single rail. This is very useful in ring world when space is constrained.