Comparison of Braking Performance for Different Technologies of Heavy Hauled Freight Trains

The paper shows a comparison of different braking technologies for freight trains and their effects on in-train forces. At this aim, the UIC certified software TrainDy is employed. Freight train sets, having one and two remote locomotives, are investigated both as coupled trains and as fixed train compositions. There is also an evaluation of the in-train forces of freight train sets equipped by electro-pneumatic brakes and disk brakes. The case of two remote locomotives is further explored showing the minor benefits of an ad hoc activation of drivers brake valve, compared to the benefits of an optimized mass distribution, for train sets both coupled and fixed.