For Model Train Buffs, ExactRail Releases Impressive Replica of the Storied 'Opera Window' Center-Beam Flat Car

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ExactRail, which specializes in authentically detailed model railroad products, has released its Thrall 63’ “Opera Window” Center-Beam Flat Car, an impressive replica designed and engineered in Utah.

Easily one of our most intricate and part-intense models to date, the opera window center-beam is a hybrid model of etched brass and plastic that is without equal.

Orem, UT (PRWEB) August 23, 2012

ExactRail, which specializes in authentically detailed model railroad products, has released its Thrall 63’ “Opera Window” Center-Beam Flat Car, an impressive replica designed and engineered at ExactRail’s Utah headquarters.

First developed in 1977, the center-beam flat car is still used today. The railroad car was created to help prevent mishaps when forklift operators loaded and unloaded trains. It became a favorite among shippers and railroaders as they were able to unload the car with ease.

The opera window flat car is known as one of the “most distinctive prototypes of all time,” said Blaine Hadfield, product vice president for ExactRail.

“Easily one of our most intricate and part-intense models to date, the opera window center-beam is a hybrid model of etched brass and plastic that is without equal,” Hadfield added.

The “opera window” car received its name due to the large cutouts along the center partition.

“The Thrall 63' opera window center-beam is still common to the rails,” Hadfield said.

Center-beam flat cars are built with bulkhead ends and beams that extend up from the middle of the cars. These flat cars are reinforced by a longitudinal I-beam, which allows half of a payload to be placed on one side of the center beam and the rest of the load on the other. The specialty cars are for carrying bundled supplies such as dimensional lumber, wallboard and fence posts.

ExactRail developed the model in six authentic colors with accurate painting and printing. Other features include:

•     Wire grab irons, brake rods, and coupler levers
•     CNC-machined metal wheel sets with metal axles
•     0.010 inch etched brass center partition, COTS and ACI placards
•     Factory installed Kadee No. 58 couplers
•     Narrow style draft box, featuring: shank wedges, striker casting and full nut and bolt detail
•     ExactRail's exclusive ASF 100 ton 'Ride Control' trucks

The center-beam flat car is now available from ExactRail.com and will be shipped in late 2012.

About ExactRail

ExactRail is a leader in precision micro-tooling in model railroading. ExactRail offers engaging products with acute attention to detail and accuracy, setting a new standard for innovation and quality in the industry. Formed in 2008, the company continues to introduce a wide variety of new and innovative products. For more information or to purchase ExactRail models visit exactrail.com.

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