What Steel Wheels are without being confused?

Model trains are not the toys that some people think they are. Manufacturers have created model train sets for adults to satisfy the huge demand.

Model train sets for adults have been put together to avoid the confusion of buying lots of different parts to build a basic model railway.

And, because these sets are produced in bulk, and are made easier to deliver across the country, they are substantially cheaper than buying the individual components.

A large majority of these new model railway sets for adults come complete with DCC.

DCC is digital command control, which means that more than 1 locomotive can be controlled differently on the same track.

Years ago the train sets would have one power pack with one controller. This controller would vary the voltage supplied to the track which would determine the direction and speed of the locomotive. If you placed 2 locomotives on the same track, they would both move in the same direction and at the same speed.

With DCC you are supplying a constant voltage to the track and the electronics determine which locomotive will move, and at what speed and in what direction. This makes your model railway set so much more enjoyable and expandable.

Another thing to look out for when buying model train sets for adults, is the weight of the locomotive.

A good quality locomotive will feel heavy. Just by picking it up you will feel if it is solid and of a good quality.

Check how many wheels are steel. The steel wheels conduct the power to the motor. So, the more steel wheels it has, the better the conductivity of the power will be.

If you’ve been around the pottery world for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard of Shimpo wheels. Shimpo is one of the most popular pottery wheel manufacturers not only because they make a great wheel, but they also stand behind their product with excellent customer service.

Shimpo currently has four offerings, each catering to a slightly different market segment. The beauty of this is that it means there’s a Shimpo for everyone.

Here’s a brief description of each Shimpo wheel:

1. Shimpo VL-Whisper

The VL-Whisper is often purported to be the best-selling pottery wheel in the world. This isn’t surprising given that it boasts a myriad of features that enhance the throwing experience. But it’s best known for being the quietest wheel on the market. Some feel the silence is a bit unnerving – they find the hum of an electronic pottery wheel somehow soothing. But for most people, it’s a beautiful thing. You can listen to the radio, keep an ear out for the kids, or hold a conversation without coming away with a sore throat.

The Shimpo VL-Whisper is also quite versatile in that its adjustable legs and remote foot pedal accommodate a variety of positions while you’re throwing. The wheelhead is reversible, so both left-handers and right-handers are happy.

One other feature worth mentioning is that the motor is direct-drive. This means little to no maintenance because there are no belts to contend with.

2. Shimpo RK-Whisper

The RK-Whisper, which is the second in Shimpo’s “Whisper” line, has a more industrial look and feel. If you’re looking for a workhorse that can take a beating (in a classroom setting, for example), be sure to consider this model.

The RK is also powered by a quiet direct-drive motor, but the legs are not adjustable and the foot pedal is attached. It also has a hand lever, but the downside is that you have to remove your hand from your pot to adjust the speed.

3. Shimpo VL-Lite

The VL-Lite (not to be confused with the VL-Whisper) has a belt-driven motor that isn’t exactly whisper quiet. Not that it’s especially noisy, but that’s just not the niche it’s trying to fill. It’s really geared more towards beginners, but even experienced potters find its portability a big plus. If you’re looking for a quality wheel that you can take on the road or easily store out of the way when not in use, this is a great option. Don’t let the “Lite” in the name make you think it’s light on quality.

4. Shimpo Aspire

The Shimpo Aspire is a tabletop wheel that is also a good choice for beginners. Again, all the Shimpo wheels are quality wheels, but the Aspire does come with some limitations in terms of the centering capacity and wheelhead size. Still, you can create some marvelous pieces with this basic model. And it’s certainly the most portable of the Shimpo models.