TRAIN HANDLING IN UNDULATING GRADIENT
Required knowledge in undulating gradient In some undulating areas, the track profile is of such severity that it is virtually impossible to control slack action without generating high draw bar force levels within the train. Skilful operation by the Loco Pilot can reduce the severity of the slack changes to a tolerable degree. To properly negotiate such undulating gradient, it is essential that the Loco Pilot have knowledge of:
i) Total length of the train.
ii) Total tonnage of the train.
iii) Location of terrain features and speed boards.
v) Location of the rear portion of the train at all times in relation to ascending & descending grades.
vi) Location of the rear portion of the train at all times in relation to changes to track curvature. Zonal Railway Training Institute, Central Railway, Bhusawal ©AC Loco Simulator.
Starting of train in undulating gradient
i) Apply SA-9 fully, advance the MP in notch 1, observe ammeter increase.
ii) Gradually release SA-9 until locomotive begins to move.
iii) After a few seconds pause, advance the MP to notch 2 and again note ammeter indication. Before advancing MP further, wait for ammeter reading to reduce. Negotiating undulating gradient The most reliable procedure is to reduce speed & power prior to entering the series of undulating grades & to operate at a constant speed throughout the undulating area by MP manipulation. Concentrate upon the location of the rear end of the train, traction amperage, speed and pull of the train. The important steps: -
i) Reduce power on approach to the undulating grades.
ii) Concentrate on the location of the rear end of the train. Zonal Railway Training Institute, Central Railway, Bhusawal ©AC Loco Simulator.
iii) Increase power when the locomotive approaches an ascending (up) grade.
iv) Decrease power when the locomotive approaches to descending (down) grade.
v) Maintain a uniform speed throughout the undulating grade section. Stopping the train in undulating gradient In undulating grade, stopping procedure of the train should be followed as per ascending or descending grade, where the train has to stop during running.
