Could someone please tell me about these devices. Logic tells me that it is a device used to derail trains. If that is the case, what-when and where would they be used?? Also do the Genesis locomotives used by Amtrak, have the same braking systems as is typical on freight locomotives.[8D]
A derail is a metal piece attached to a rail which when in the derail position will cause the wheels of a railcar to jump off the rails (rail term: on the ground). They are usually located on spur tracks especially those which slope toward the main line. The idea is that if a car parked on a spur started to roll toward the main, it would hit the derail and stop rolling before any serious damage would occur such as rolling in front of a moving train. Loose cars can travel many miles depending on the profile of the track. A derail normally has a sign next to it to remind trainmen to put it in the off position before entering a spur track. The switch leading into the spur is also marked with a sign and the switch stand, at least on the CP, is painted yellow. Woe to the conductor who forgets to remove the derail and backs his own train over it!
There is also a derail that in essence is one switch point that serves the same purpose.
I see now–thanks for the replies. Hope that I get some info on the braking systems of the Genesis locomotive too. I think it is a P42??