Air Brakes and Train Handling Rules - Alaska Railroad

64 Train Handlingb. For mountain grade territory, limit the effective brake pipereduction to 18 psi or less.NOTE: Effective brake pipe reduction can exceed these limits if:• The train is not sufficiently recharged from the previousbrake application.• Conditions such as signal spacing require immediatespeed reduction.B. Responding To Unintentional Brake ReleaseIf an unintentional brake release occurs when the brakes are applied,increase the brake pipe reduction at least 5 psi below the last effectivebrake pipe reduction.C. Releasing BrakesTo release the brakes:1. At slow speeds, use judgment and evaluate the following beforeattempting a running release of the automatic brakes:• Train speed• Train makeup• Temperature• Physical characteristics of territoryAttempting a running release at very low speeds may damageequipment, lading, or track.2. Under normal circumstances:a. Increase the brake pipe reduction to 10 psi.b. Allow the exhaust at the automatic brake valve to stop beforereleasing the train brakes.Do not attempt to release the brakes on aportion of the train by moving the automaticbrake valve handle quickly from SERVICEto RELEASE to SERVICE.June 1, 1996 ARRC Air Brakes and Train Handling Manual 64-3