DYNAMIC BRAKING : HOW IT WORKS, WHY IT WORKS

This article explains how dynamic braking works and what effect it has on train operations. Dynamic brakes use the kinetic energy of a train's turning wheels to create electrical energy, which causes the train to decelerate. Because it consists of electrical energy, dynamic braking can be finely adjusted downward, more so than air brakes. The dynamic brake grids consume electricity that make the traction motor less able to turn and thus slow down. They respond more rapidly than air brakes as long as the locomotive is going at least 9 mph. They also reduce wheel wear from friction from conventional brakes and eliminate the need for stops for brakes to turn up air brake retainers or knock them off. They are costly to maintain because they need skilled electricians and some parts are subject to burnout due to high temperatures generated in their operation. As a result many locomotives have dynamic brakes that work at only partial capacity.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/6163876
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Page range: pp 30, 32
• Corporate Authors:

  Kalmbach Publishing Company

  21027 Crossroads Circle
  P.O. Box 1612
  Waukesha, WI  United States  53187-1612
• Authors:
  • Lustig, D
• Publication Date: 2002-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: 2 p.
• Serial:
  • Trains
  • Volume: 62
  • Issue Number: 12
  • Publisher: Kalmbach Publishing Company
  • ISSN: 0041-0934
  • Serial URL: http://trainsmag.com

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Dynamic braking; Locomotives
• Subject Areas: Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00937004
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 3 2003 12:00AM