Is dynamic braking,anything like downshifting gears in an automobile whereby you use your RPM’s to slow the speed & dicelerate your vichicle??? It’s used on downgrades along with the brake system??? Is that correct??? thanks Easter
There have been a number of threads on this subject, easter – use the search. In brief, though, not really. Dynamic braking works by using the traction motors as generators, and running the resulting power through resistor grids where it is dissipated as heat. It is used on downgrades, yes, but also in routine train handling – often the only braking used. Quite independent of both the locomotive and train brake systems.
Same principle, but different mechanics. The short version:
An electric motor and a generator are fundamentally the same device which either converts rotation to electricity or electricity to rotation. A motor in DB has its primary electricity source replaced with resistors. Part of the kinetic energy of the train’s motion is converted into electricity by the motor and dissipated as heat by the resistors, slowing the train.
Hey guys,thanks for the thread. Sorry I was repetitive. Easter