Air Brakes and Train Handling Rules - Alaska Railroad

GlossaryAmp MeterThe instrument that indicates how much current is flowingthrough the locomotive’s DC traction motors. Current is measuredin amps and decreases as locomotive speed increases.Angle CockA device used to open and close the brake pipe on the ends oflocomotives and cars. To open, move the handle in line with thebrake pipe. To close, move the handle at a right angle to thebrake pipe.Articulated CarA car constructed by permanently connecting two or moreplatforms with an articulated joint (two platforms share a commontruck).Automatic Air Brake SystemThe piping, reservoirs, and valves that operate the air brakesystem on locomotives and cars. Reducing brake pipe pressure ata service or emergency rate automatically applies the brakes.Increasing brake pipe pressure above auxiliary reservoir pressurereleases the brakes.Automatic Brake ValveA device that controls the flow of main reservoir air into theequalizing reservoir and brake pipe to charge and release brakes.The automatic brake valve also reduces equalizing reservoir andbrake pipe pressure at a service or emergency rate.Automatic Brake Valve Cutout ValveA device used to cut the automatic brake in or out.Auxiliary ReservoirA storage volume for compressed air on locomotives and cars. Itis charged from the brake pipe and provides air pressure forservice and emergency brake applications.G-2 ARRC Air Brakes and Train Handling Manual June 1, 1996