RAILWAY T


Revolutionising the Braking resistor technology has been crucial in


making the railways more energy effi cient. Industry expert Simone Bruckner tells us how


he opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway in 1830 marked the dawn of steam-powered rail travel.


Prior to its construction, railways were horse-drawn and hauled freight such as coal over short distances. The 31 mile railroad linking the


two cities was the fi rst to carry both passengers and freight by means of


14 www.engineerlive.com


steam-powered locomotives, spurring the development of England’s Industrial Revolution. From diesel to electric locomotives, the railway industry has seen many advancements since then. Around half a century ago, when diesel locomotives were replacing steam engines, dynamic braking was implemented to make rail operations safer and more effi cient. Although


safety will always be of paramount importance, as time goes on there are an increasing number of factors that must also be optimised. As fuel costs and environmental impacts assume greater importance, so does the need for options to increase energy effi ciency and reduce emissions. Initially, dynamic braking was seen as a tool for mountainous territory,


IMAGE: COURTESY TFL


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