THE ELECTROMAGNETICALLY ASSISTED BRAKE WAGON

BRAKE WAGONS have been used in the sugar industry since the early 1970’s. Brake wagons have generally been used to improve train control through difficult terrain or to assist in operations for longer train consists. There are typically two operational retardation modes for brake wagons: light duty retardation of empty cane bins for extended periods to maintain the rake in tension during outbound operations; and heavy duty braking for shorter periods as required for train control on downgrades, emergency stopping, shunting manoeuvres and parking. To date the light duty retardation for extended periods has been provided by conventional disc or wheel friction brakes. This paper presents the results of trials that have been conducted on an electromagnetic option for light duty retardation while maintaining the conventional braking system for heavy duty braking. The proposed benefits for this form of retardation fitted to a brake wagon are a significant reduction in derailments, improved train control, reduced fuel consumption, reduced brake and wheel maintenance and a step towards implementing best practice driving techniques when the brake wagon operations are fully automated and integrated into a train control scheme.