Integrating Non-Friction-Based Braking Technology into Locomotives to Improve Train Efficiency, Durability, and Safety

Abstract

While frictional braking is an intuitive method by which to slow vehicles, it is also a
costly braking method due to the fact that frictional brakes wear down due to frequent use and
high quantities of friction. On trains, this problem is worse because of their constant use and
because heavier objects require stronger braking forces. The objective is to improve locomotive
performance by developing a braking system that utilizes non-frictional braking technology to
cut these costs and yield safer, more durable brakes. This project is directed towards dieselelectric3 locomotives with air brakes, as engineers can design blended braking systems that
integrate non-frictional braking into these braking systems. The candidate solutions include
regenerative, rheostatic, and hydrodynamic braking, two of which use magnetic fields, and the
third of which uses fluid drag forces. Regenerative braking is the proposed solution due to its
ability to harness and use electricity during braking. Project success would contribute to railway
company success by reducing expenses spent on air brakes; it would also contribute to
locomotive manufacturer success because the product will likely become a popular technology.
Finally, it would benefit the environment by reducing the external energy required by the railway
network.

Keywords: Locomotive, braking, non-frictional, regenerative, rheostatic, hydrodynamic, diesel-electric