Trackside3D was started to make 3D printing accessible to everyone enjoying the hobby of Model Railways. 3D printing is a fantastic technology which can drastically reduce the cost of model railways. A barrier to using 3D printing is having something to print - the 3D model. Trackside3D solves that problem by making 3D models readily available for a very low price. Simply buy once, download and enjoy unlimited prints...
Trackside3D is a range of 3D printable railway models. You can download our models instantly with unlimited prints for your own personal use. The models in the Trackside3D range are designed for OO scale (1:76.2) Model Railways.
Trackside3D was launched in early 2018 and is part of the oorail project. The oorail project which was launched in November 2011 to promote and innovate British OO scale Model Railways.
Printable in other scales
Trackside3D digital products are designed for OO scale but can be printed in other scales by using the scaling option in the slicer such as Cura. If you don't model in OO scale but want to learn how to use our models in N, HO, O or another scale, then check out this oorail article.
Needed Products - Modeling First Approach
Every product we build has originated from a need or problem that we needed to solve while building the large layout at oorail. This modeling first approach has led to innovative products like our working cable trough system, track cleaning fluid filler, ballast bins, mix and match accessories and modular lineside equipment.
Based on Prototype
Every new product design is based on a real prototype scaled down to 4mm. Our research starts with review our library of technical drawings, railway standards and other design documents. The next phase involves looking for real examples within our large archive of railway photographs, a growing library of press photography and our vast library of historical railway publications. From time to time, we may even physically acquire or get measurements directly from a historical item (signs, tools, lamps etc).
Consult our Advisers
Whether it is to seek clarification or simply get the nod of approval, our final stage is to ask our panel of advisers for their opinion of our pre-release product. Our panel of advisers includes retired railway and industry professionals.
Optimized 3D Printing
All of our 3D models are carefully designed to maximize the success of the print, regardless of who is printing the model. This includes minimizing the need for support material, recommending specific rotation and material settings. Each print is tested and retested before being made available to the public. We test both PLA and PETG filaments. We often test hybrid materials such as Wood infused PLA, Transparent PETG and metal infused filaments.
What makes us different
Trackside3D and oorail exist because we enjoy model railways. Our goal is to create products that help make model railways more enjoyable, affordable and accessible to everyone. We are here to blend skills from the past with the technology of the future.
We guarantee:
- Our products are true to the prototype as possible
- Always identify design decisions needed to overcome technical limitations
- Always deliver the best possible product
- Products will never be out of stock
- Instant Delivery via the Internet
- Fair and Reasonable Pricing
- Deliver a sustainable range of 4mm products
- Provide a focus on frustration free modeling
- Mindful that your time is valuable and optimize our designs as much as possible
By Modellers for Modellers
Trackside3D products are designed by the team at oorail. The oorail project exists because we enjoy model railways. Our goal is to make the hobby more enjoyable and more affordable. We strive to find new ideas and new ways to innovate on a daily basis. We always welcome feedback and are always willing to test out new ideas. Please use the contact us page to reach out.