Old Train Car Brake Systems
Introduction
The earliest train brakes were simple handbrakes that were applied by the brakeman. These brakes were not very effective, and they could only be used to slow down the train, not to stop it. In the early 19th century, air brakes were developed. Air brakes are much more effective than handbrakes, and they can be used to stop the train quickly and safely.
Air Brakes
Air brakes work by using compressed air to apply the brakes. When the engineer applies the brakes, compressed air is sent from the locomotive to the brake cylinders on each car. The brake cylinders then push the brake shoes against the wheels, which slows down the train.
Air brakes are a very important safety feature on trains. They allow the engineer to stop the train quickly and safely, even in an emergency.
Other Brake Systems
In addition to air brakes, there are a number of other brake systems that have been used on trains over the years. These include:
- Vacuum brakes: Vacuum brakes use a vacuum to apply the brakes. When the engineer applies the brakes, a vacuum is created in the brake cylinders. The vacuum then pulls the brake shoes against the wheels, which slows down the train.
- Hydraulic brakes: Hydraulic brakes use hydraulic fluid to apply the brakes. When the engineer applies the brakes, hydraulic fluid is sent from the locomotive to the brake cylinders on each car. The brake cylinders then push the brake shoes against the wheels, which slows down the train.
- Electric brakes: Electric brakes use electricity to apply the brakes. When the engineer applies the brakes, an electric current is sent from the locomotive to the brake cylinders on each car. The brake cylinders then push the brake shoes against the wheels, which slows down the train.
Conclusion
Train brakes are an important safety feature that help to keep trains safe. Over the years, a number of different brake systems have been used on trains, but air brakes are the most common type of brake system used today.
