A backshunt is a railway track configuration in situations where a change in (almost opposite) direction is required and a traditional curve cannot fit.
There are two main applications of a backshunt. To climb or drop a steep incline using a zig zag To change direction on to a parallel track, often used in industrial sidings.
Example Backshunts Part of the old Cleator and Workington Junction Railway was maintained in Rowrah as a backshunt from Rowrah Head Quarry on to the Whitehaven, Cleator and Egremont Railway.
See also Headshunt
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