How Air Brakes on Trains Work Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

How Air Brakes on Trains Work - Article Example Eventually, there is a slowdown of the wheels and the whole train stops. The braking material assumes the form of a pad or block. Most trains are installed with braking systems that feature compressed air like the power to force blocks on to pads or wheels on to discs. Such systems are referred to as "pneumatic brakes" or "air brakes". A â€Å"brake pipe† is used to transmit the compressed air into the system. Varying the level of air pressure results into a variance in the brake’s state of application in every locomotive. The train may apply the brake, hold (release) it after an incomplete application. The compressor serves as the pump necessary for drawing air from the atmosphere, while compressing it for further usage on the train. The principal function of the air is portrayed in the brake system, even if compressed air is also used in other means. The driver’s brake valve acts as the means via which the train driver regulates the brake system. This valve has a minimum of such positions as: "Running", "Lap", "Release", "Emergency", and "Application". Additionally, a position to "Shut Down" is included to help lock the valve when it is not on use. Every position plays an autonomous role in the braking system. The "Release" position links the brake pipe to the main reservoir. This effort helps in raising the available air pressure within the shortest time possible in order to acquire an instant release when the driver is signaled to restart the train. The selection of the feed value is acquired when the valve is in the position, "Running". This facilitates the maintenance of a slow feed within the brake pipe in order to counteract the losses or small leaks in the connections, brake pipe and connections. The role of the "Lap" is to help close the link between the brake pipe and main reservoir, as well as to hinder the atmospheric connection when a brake application is committed. The Lap has