Investigation of the effect of controlled air leaks on the brake line of a freight train

Abstract

One of the promising areas of development of railway transport, as an industry in general, is an in-depth study and consideration of issues aimed at the efficiency of braking systems. The recent years’ experience demonstrates a clear trend, its vector being the modernization of train braking systems, as well as of individual components and devices. The identification of local problem areas and the subsequent elimination of the identified shortcomings in the operation of pneumatic brakes allow to speak with confidence about improving the overall reliability of auto brakes and the efficiency of their work. In this article, the authors consider leaks that occur in the train's braking network, the causes of their occurrence, as well as their impact on the overall provision of the train with auto brakes. During the study, the issue of the of the train's brake line density was singled out separately. A number of insignificant, at first glance, structural disadvantages of the freight train braking system are indicated, directly affecting the efficiency of its operation. During the analysis, in the article the possibility was considered of introducing an External device for adjusting the density of the train brake line by creating a controlled leak. Based on the results of the experimental tests, a report on the operation of the device was formed. Data have been obtained to establish the effect of controlled, unproductive, local leakage of compressed air on the operation of braking equipment and the braking system of a freight train as a whole.