I’ve compiled a list of some common railroading terms (with simple definitions). You might hear some of these railroading terms mentioned from time to time, so if you’re not already familiar with them, this will be a handy reference. The railroading terms I’ve listed here are reasonably universal, but some may vary depending on where you live. Also note, that the list is by no means complete, as there are literally hundreds of different railroading terms used on railroads around the world including several slang expressions.

Part 1 has the first seven railroading terms:

Absolute Block
A block which must not be occupied by more than one train.

Accelerometer
This device measures a trains rate of speed change.

Active Dynamic Braking
Uses the traction motors as generators where the output is dissipated in a massive resistor bank. The effect is to consume the trains momentum in generating electricity.

Adhesion
The amount of pulling or retarding force a wheel is capable of exerting on the rail without slipping or spinning. Adhesion can be affected by the load on the wheel, rail condition, wheel condition and other factors like oil, rust & weather.

Air Flow Indicator
This instrument measures the air flow through the automatic brake valve to the brake pipe.
Alertness Device This is a “deadman” type of safety device that activates a brake application if the engineer fails to maintain the required frequency of movement.

Angle Cocks
These are valves on the air hoses controlling air flow between cars.

Share this...

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Linkedin

email