Track that continues in a straight line without any horizontal curvature. Track geometry is divided into curves and tangents. Railroads prefer tangent track because it allows for higher operating speeds, reduces wear on wheel flanges and rails, and minimizes the rolling resistance of the train.
Heard on the job
Once we get out of this canyon and hit the tangent track, we can notch out to track speed.
Insider tip
When a dispatcher or engineer talks about tangent track, they simply mean straight track.