danmitch on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:12:22 -0400
typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following:

The important safety features of the Westinghouse brake system are that
1) each car has it's own reservoir, and THAT air is used to apply that
car's brakes, independently of any other car. and 2) that a DROP in air
pressure in the train line applies the brakes. Hence, in the event of a
separation of the train line (a break-in-two of the train for example),
the pressure loss applies the brakes.

My understanding has been that the air pressure keeps the brakes
"open" (off), and that loss of air pressure applies the brakes. Sort
of a fail safe mode.


--
pyotr filipivich
We will drink no whiskey before its nine.
It's eight fifty eight. Close enough!