A Powerful 3D‑Printed Railway System You Can Actually Build –
for less than 150 Euros!
Coming soon…
Introducing a fully operational, 3D printed garden railway system on 64mm gauge — designed to run outdoors, turn heads indoors, and deliver real pulling power in a maker‑friendly build.
The project will be released on Kickstarter (subject to approval by Kickstarter). All STL files for printing, schematics, documentation, sound files and the source code for the controller’s functions will then be available on Kickstarter. For a notification of the KickStarter project start, please send an e-mail with the subject “StartInfo” to info@openrail64.com
3D‑Printed = Modular, Repairable, Upgradeable, Customizable
This project is built for creators: about 90% of parts are 3D‑printed, which means you can print, replace, and iterate — instead of being locked into proprietary parts.
Explore our innovative 1:22.5 scale railway system with realistic controls, steam effects, and expandable track options, designed for durability and maker customization.
Operational Locomotive
Powered by Bosch 18V batteries, our locomotive delivers authentic performance and easy maintenance.
Customizable Track System
Expand and configure your garden railway with modular, repair-friendly and customizable train track.
Maker-Friendly Design
Designed for easy upgrades, repairs, creative personalization and expansion by enthusiasts this 3d-printed railway Is the optimal basis for a project that is fun to build and fun to use.
Lok1 – Our first model and test device
Lok1 is the first locomotive of our system. Since it has to be a prototype and test device, it is not a scale replica but a fantasy model that works well and gets all the functions that we develop.
No Track Power. Just Plug‑In and Go.
Power comes from a standard Bosch 18V rechargeable power tool battery, delivering roughly 2 hours runtime on a small pack (2Ah — and longer if you carry spare batteries in wagons.
The design provides a click in adapter for the Bosch battery, which can be easily replaced with an adapter for batteries from other manufacturers. The only constrain is the size of the battery.
Built Like a Machine (Because It Is One)
Under the hood you’ll find a stepper‑driven drivetrain with an ESP32 Devkit 1, a DM320T driver, and a double‑reduction printed gearbox — designed for smooth control and serious torque.
Realistic Operation: Motion + Lights + Sound + Steam
Control it with a dedicated app (Arduino IDE on ESP32). Get realistic acceleration and braking, direction control, lights, speed‑dependent sounds. Steam on/off via a steam generator that pushes steam through the chimney, speed‑dependent. The steam function can be used inside and outside. It is 100% water vapor, no harmful content.
Materials / Outdoor Durability
Print materials currently used: PLA, PETG HF, PETG CF and TPU.
For components exposed outdoors for long durations (like rails): ASA recommended.
Development Progress You Can Trust
This isn’t just an idea: the locomotive is 90% complete and the second prototype is already operational. Documentation and ESP32 code will be provided as the project releases in stages.
Planned Components
This project is more than a single locomotive — it’s the foundation of a modular, expandable indoor/outdoor railway system.
The core locomotive is already operational, and there is room for several additional components.
Track System Expansion
Planned additions to the 3D‑printable track system include:
- Manual and motorized switches for sidings, yards, and passing loops
- Additional curve radii and track variants for flexible layouts
- Modular mounting solutions for temporary or permanent installations
All track elements are designed to remain fully compatible with the existing 64 mm gauge system.
Power & Electronics Extensions
To increase flexibility and system longevity, planned upgrades include:
- Alternative battery adapters for other common 18 V tool battery platforms
- Optional battery status monitoring (voltage and capacity feedback)
- Software extensions for different train weights and consist configurations
Electronics development continues to focus on openness, repairability, and maker accessibility.
Control, Automation & App Features
The ESP32‑based control system allows room for meaningful expansion:
- Extended app features such as driving profiles, presets, and cruise control
- Support for multiple locomotives on one layout
- Optional wireless accessories, such as remote‑controlled functions or layout elements
Rolling Stock & System Add‑Ons
Future rolling stock concepts include:
- Freight wagon types (tank, flatbed, utility, …)
- Passenger wagons with lighting and interior
- Utility wagons for battery transport or electronics
All wagons follow the same modular, 3D‑printable design philosophy as the locomotive.
Signals, Scenery & Details
Functional railway signals with lighting
- Trackside elements such as platforms, stations, and loading areas
- Optional animated or interactive layout details
Documentation & Community Growth
As the project grows, so will the ecosystem around it:
- Detailed build guides, wiring diagrams, and BOMs
- Open, mod‑friendly documentation to encourage community extensions
- A framework for sharing improvements, variants, and upgrades
Important note:
All planned components are presented as a development roadmap, not guaranteed deliverables. The core locomotive with rails and a first set of wagons remains the primary focus of this campaign, while additional elements will be developed progressively based on time, funding, and community interest.