Glossary of rail transport terms

Rail terminology is a form of technical terminology. The difference between the American term railroad and the international term railway (used by the International Union of Railways and English-speaking countries outside the US) is the most significant difference in rail terminology. There are also others, due to the parallel development of rail transport systems in different parts of the world.

Various global terms are presented here; where a term has multiple names, this is indicated. The abbreviation "UIC" refers to standard terms adopted by the International Union of Railways in its official publications and thesaurus.[1]

Contents :

0–9

For 4-4-0, 2-6-4T, 0-4-4-0, etc., see Whyte notation.

A

Absolute block signalling
A British signalling scheme designed to ensure the safe operation of a railway by allowing only one train to occupy a defined section of track (block) at a time[2]
Adhesion railway
The most common type of railway, where power is applied by driving some or all of the wheels of the locomotive[3]
Adhesive weight
The weight on the driving wheels of a locomotive, which determines the frictional grip between wheels and rail, and hence the drawbar pull which a locomotive can exert[4]
Air brake
A power braking system with compressed air as the operating medium[5]
Alerter or watchdog
Similar to the dead man's switch other than it does not require the operator's constant interaction. Instead, an alarm is sounded at a preset interval in which the operator must respond by pressing a button to reset the alarm and timer if no other controls are operated. If the operator does not respond within a preset time, the prime mover is automatically throttled back to idle and the brakes are automatically applied.[6]
All weather adhesion
The adhesion available during traction mode with 99% reliability in all weather conditions[7]
Alternator
An electrical generator that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy in the form of alternating current[8]
American Locomotive Company (ALCO)
The second largest builder of steam locomotives in the United States[9][10]
The American wheel arrangement
American type
A steam locomotive with a 4-4-0 wheel arrangement[11]
Angle cock
A valve affixed to each end of a piece of rolling stock that, when opened, admits compressed air to the brake pipe (or vents it to the atmosphere if air hose is detached)[12]
Arch tubes
Tubes connected to the water-space of the boiler provided in and across the firebox in order to add extra high-temperature heating surface. They also serve to support the brick arch or equivalent.
Articulated locomotive
A steam locomotive with one or more engine units that can move relative to the main frame[9][13]
Articulation
The sharing of one truck by adjacent ends of two rail vehicles
Ashpan
A feature of a locomotive which has the same form and purpose as the domestic variety (i.e. to collect the ashes which fall through the bars of the grate). The only significant difference is the size, measured in feet rather than inches.
Asynchronous
An alternating current electric motor whose speed varies with load and has no fixed relation to the frequency of the supply
The Atlantic wheel arrangement
Atlantic type
A steam locomotive with a 4-4-2 wheel arrangement[14][15][16]
An Autocoach
Automatic block signaling (ABS)
A system that consists of a series of signals that divide a railway line into a series of blocks and then functions to control the movement of trains between them through automatic signals
An automatic equipment identification tag attached to a freight car
Automatic train control (ATC)
A general class of train protection systems for railways that involves a speed control mechanism in response to external inputs
Automatic train operation (ATO)
An operational safety enhancement device used to help automate operations of trains
Automatic train protection (ATP)
Either of two implementations of a train protection system installed in some trains in order to help prevent collisions through a driver's failure to observe a signal or speed restriction
Autotrain, push-pull train
A branch-line train consisting of a steam locomotive and passenger carriages that can be driven from either end by means of rodding to the regulator and an additional vacuum brake valve. The fireman remains with the locomotive and, when the driver is at the other end, the fireman controls the cut off and vacuum ejectors in addition to his usual duties.
A German axle box
Axlebox or axle box
  1. The housing that holds the axle bearings of a locomotive[17]
  2. The housing attaching the end of the axle to the bogie which contains the bearing allowing the axle to rotate.[18] See also journal box below.

B

An example of a BNSF Railway bad order repair tag
Bad order
A tag or note applied to a defective piece of equipment. Generally, equipment tagged as bad order is not to be used until repairs are performed and the equipment is inspected and approved for use.[19][20]
Bail off
To release the locomotive brakes while the train brakes are being applied in order to permit smoother handling and prevent excessive slack, wheel slide and flat wheels[21]
Balancing
The reciprocation and revolving masses of any steam, diesel or electric locomotive need balancing, if it is to work smoothly. Revolving masses can easily be balanced by counterweights, but the balancing of reciprocating parts is a matter of compromise and judgement.
Ballast
Aggregate stone, gravel, or cinders forming the track bed on which sleepers (ties) and track are laid to ensure stability and proper drainage[19][22]
Ballast tamper
See Tamping machine.
Balloon
A looped length of track, usually at the end of a spur or branch, which allows trains to turn around for the return trip without reversing or shunting. Can be used as part of a freight installation to allow the loading or unloading of bulk materials without the need to stop the train (see merry-go-round train (MGR)).
Bay platform
A platform and track arrangement where the train pulls into a siding, or dead-end, when serving the platform
Beep
A one-of-a-kind switcher locomotive (also referred to as the SWBLW) built by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1970
Bellmouth
A widening of an underground rail tunnel, in preparation for future connection or expansion of service. Used particularly in subway nomenclature.[23][24]
The Berkshire wheel arrangement
Berkshire type
A steam locomotive with a 2-8-4 wheel arrangement[25][26][27]
Blastpipe
A part of a steam locomotive that discharges exhaust steam from the cylinders into the smokebox beneath the chimney in order to increase the draught through the fire
Bo-Bo (Europe)
A locomotive with a four-wheel per truck configuration, each individually powered, as opposed to a six-wheel "Co-Co" configuration.
Boiler
A cylindrical container adjacent to the firebox in which steam is produced to drive a steam locomotive[28]
Bolster
A transverse floating beam member of a truck suspension system supporting the weight of a vehicle body[29]
Boom barriers at a railway crossing in France
Boom barrier
A pivoted road barrier at a level crossing
Booster engine
An extra set of cylinders that can be engaged on a steam locomotive to drive a trailing truck or tender truck to give additional tractive effort at starting and low speeds[19][30]
Brakeman's cabin or brakeman's cab
A small hut at one end of a railway wagon to protect the brakeman from the elements
Brake pipe
The main air pipe of a train's air brake system[31]
Branch line
A secondary railway line that splits off from a main line[19]
Brick arch
A brick or concrete baffle provided at the front of a locomotive firebox below the tubes, in order to extend the flame path. Early locomotives burned coke; provision of a brick arch was necessary before coal could be used without producing excessive smoke.
British Rail Universal Trolley Equipment (BRUTE)
A type of platform trolley found on stations all over the UK rail network from the late 1960s to the early 1980s
Broad gauge
Track where the rails are spaced more widely apart than 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) (which is called standard gauge).[19] Many early railroads were broad gauge, for example the Great Western Railway in the UK which adopted 7 ft (2,134 mm) gauge until it was converted to standard gauge in the 1860s - 1890s. Russia still has over 80,000 km (50,000 mi) of broad gauge (1,520 mm (4 ft 11 27⁄32 in)) railroads. Broad gauge is also normal in Spain and Portugal (1,668 mm (5 ft 5 21⁄32 in) Iberian gauge), in India (1,676 mm (5 ft 6 in) Indian gauge), as well as Ireland and used in some parts of Australia (1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) Irish gauge).
Bubble car
A nickname for a British Rail Class 121 railcar[32]
Buckeye coupler
A side-operated version of the top- or bottom-operated Janney coupler[33]
Buffer
A device that cushions the ends of rail vehicles against each other
Buffer stop or bumper post
The barrier installed at the end of a dead-end track to prevent rail vehicles from proceeding further
Builder's plate
The nameplate fitted by their manufacturer to locomotives and items of rolling stock
Bulkhead flatcar
An open-top flatcar with a wall at each end
Bungalow
The housing for signals and communications computers that control switches, crossings, and other such controls, relaying information to and from the RTC (rail traffic control).[34]
Bustitution
A portmanteau of the words "bus" and "substitution", the practice of replacing a train service with one provided by buses, whether as a temporary or a permanent measure

C

Cab
The control room of a locomotive housing the engine crew and their control consoles[35][36]
Cab forward
A steam locomotive with its cab at the leading end of the boiler, rather than the usual trailing end adjacent to the tender. The best known example is the Southern Pacific Railroad's AC type, built to handle drag freights through the SP's many tunnels and snow sheds without the danger of the exhaust asphyxiating the engine crew.
Cabless
A locomotive without a cab. Commonly referred to as a B unit or a Slug, although not all Slugs are cabless.
A caboose on display at the National New York Central Railroad Museum
Caboose
A railroad car attached usually to the end of a train, in which railroad workers could ride and monitor track and rolling stock conditions. Largely obsolete, having been replaced by the electronic end-of-train device (ETD), or flashing rear-end device (FRED).[37]
Cant
The angle of an individual rail relative to vertical (e.g. around curves)
Carbody unit
A locomotive which derives its structural strength from a bridge-truss design framework in the sides and roof, which cover the full width of the locomotive
A catenary is visible above this electric Amtrak train.
Catenary
The overhead wire system used to send electricity to an electric locomotive or multiple unit, tram or light rail vehicle[37]
Centerbeam
A bulkhead flatcar with a braced beam bisecting its length, used to transport lumber products
The Challenger wheel arrangement
Challenger type
A steam locomotive with a 4-6-6-4 wheel arrangement[38][39][40][41]
Co-Co (EU)
A heavier duty locomotive with six wheels per bogie (all axles being separately driven) configuration as opposed to a four-wheel "Bo-Bo" configuration. The correct classification is Co'Co', but Co-Co is used more often.
Coal pusher
A steam-operated device in the tender intended to push coal forward to a point where it can be shovelled directly into the fire[42]
Colour light signal
A signal in which the colour of the light determines the meaning of the aspect shown
Colour position signal
A signaling system that uses both colour and light position to determine the meaning of the aspect shown
Combined power handle
A handle or lever which controls both the throttle and the dynamic braking on the locomotive: on a desktop-type control stand, forward (away from operator) past center operates the dynamic brake, backward (toward operator), past center, is throttle up[43][44][45]
Compound locomotive
A steam locomotive passing steam through two sets of cylinders. One set uses high pressure steam, then passes the low pressure exhausted steam to the second.[46]
The Consolidation wheel arrangement
Consolidation type
A steam locomotive with a 2-8-0 wheel arrangement[47][48]
Container on flat car (COFC)
The loading of a shipping container onto a simple flat car[37]
Continuous welded rail (CWR)
A form of track in which the rails are welded together by utilising the thermite reaction or flash butt welding to form one continuous rail that may be several kilometres long[37]
Control car
A passenger coach which has a full set of train controls at one end, allowing for the use of push-pull train operation[49]
Coupler pulling faces, length over
Effective length of piece of rolling stock
Coupling rods
Rods between crank pins on the wheels, transferring power from a driving axle to a driven axle of a locomotive[50]
Covered goods wagon (UIC)
A type of rolling stock with a flat bottom enclosed on all sides and top, which is loaded and unloaded from sliding doors on each side[19][51]
Cow-calf or cow and calf
A diesel locomotive with a crew cab permanently coupled to and acting as a controller for a similar slave diesel locomotive without a crew cab, primarily used for switching/shunting duties for large groups of rolling stock. Also known as master and slave, as in the British Rail Class 13 shunters at Tinsley Marshalling Yard.
Crank pin
A pin protruding from a wheel into a main or coupling rod
Crosshead
In a steam locomotive, the moving member of a sliding guide which absorbs upward and downward forces from the connecting (main) rod, which otherwise would tend to bend the piston rod[52]
Cut
  1. To uncouple one or more cars from a train (i.e. to "make a cut")[53]
  2. Same as "cutting"[53]
Cut lever
A manual lever which releases the pin of an automatic coupler when pulled to separate cars or locomotives[54][55]
Cut off
A variable device on steam locomotives which closes the steam valve to the steam cylinder before the end of the piston stroke, thus conserving steam while allowing the steam in the cylinder to expand under its own energy. See also: Reverser handle.
Cutting
A channel dug through a hillside to enable rail track to maintain a shallow gradient. See also embankment.
Cycle braking
Making repeated service brake reductions in short succession to maintain a constant speed on short but steep grades. Each reduction must be at least 5 PSI lower than the previous one in order to keep the brakes applying regularly, but excessive cycle braking can deplete the air supply and require an emergency application.[56]
Cylinder
A cavity in a reciprocating engine in which a piston travels
Cylinder cock
On steam locomotives, this appurtenance allows condensed water to be drained from the steam cylinders when the throttle is opened, thus preventing damage to the pistons, running gear, and cylinder heads[57]

D

Dark signal
A block signal that is displaying no discernible aspect, often due to burned out lamps or local power failure. Most railroads require that a dark signal be treated as displaying its most restrictive aspect (e.g. stop and stay for an absolute signal).[58]
Dark territory
A section of track without block signals[59]
Dead man's handle
A safety mechanism on a train controller which automatically applies the brake if a lever is released. It is intended to stop a train if the driver is incapacitated. In some forms, this device may be pedal-actuated. See also Dead-man's vigilance device.
The Decapod wheel arrangement
Decapod type
A steam locomotive with a 2-10-0 wheel arrangement[60][61][62]
Defect detector
A track side device used to detect various defects such as hotboxes (overheated axle bearings), dragging equipment, leaning cars, overloaded cars, overheight cars, seized (locked) wheels, etc.[63]
Demurrage
A monetary charge levied by a railroad to a customer for excessive delay in loading or unloading cars
Derail or derailer
A safety device that will derail vehicles passing it, often used to prevent rolling stock from unintentionally entering the mainline from a siding[63]
A detonator on a rail
Detonator
Small explosive charges placed on the running rail which detonate when run over—used to warn drivers in following trains of an incident ahead
A railroad crossing at grade, also known as a diamond
Diamond
Track which allows a rail line to cross another at grade[63]
A diesel multiple unit in Poland
Diesel multiple unit (DMU)
A set of diesel-powered self-propelling passenger rail vehicles able to operate in multiple with other such sets. Such units, especially those consisting of a single vehicle, are sometimes termed railcars.
Direct traffic control (DTC)
A system in which train dispatchers communicate directly with train crews via radio to authorize track occupancy in predefined blocks[63]
Distributed power
A practice employed to move large trains through the mountains. Consists of the locomotives on the head end, a "swing" (mid-train) helper or two, and pusher locomotive(s) on the rear; today, all units are remotely controlled by the engineer in the lead unit. The power distribution alleviates stress on the couplers and relieves the lead units of the full weight of the train, making it easier to move on grades.
A Canadian National Railway train showing the placement of ditch lights on the locomotive
Ditch lights
A pair of lights, usually found on modern locomotives, located several feet below and outboard of the main headlight, that may alternately flash when the train is sounding its horn[64]
Division
The trackage area under the jurisdiction of a railway superintendent[65]
Dog or dogspike (India)
A spike with a slightly altered head shape for easier extraction when the spike has become too loose in the sleeper[66][67]
Doodlebug
A self-powered gasoline-electric passenger car used for small capacity rural commuter service.[63] Also a British Rail Class 153 DMU.
Double
If a train has insufficient power to climb a grade and no helpers are available, the train will be split into two sections and run separately to the top.[68]
Double heading
A configuration in which two steam locomotives are coupled head-to-tail in order to haul a heavy train up a long or steep hill. In the present day, double heading (and occasionally triple heading) are done primarily on large passenger trains or as a show for railfans.
Drag
A long, heavy freight train moving at low speed
Dragging equipment detector
See Defect detector.[63]
Drawbar
The part of a coupler that attaches to the frame of the car or locomotive; may be equipped with a pneumatic cushion depending on a freight car's design cargo (e.g. an autorack). Alternately, the pinned double bars coupling a steam locomotive to its tender.
Driver or engine driver
The operator of a locomotive[69]
Driver only operation (DO or DOO)
Operation of a train by the engineer or driver only.[70] Also known as one person train operation (OPTO)
Driver
A wheel in contact with the rail that also propels a locomotive
Dwarf signal
A signal light that is considerably smaller and closer to the ground than a high-mast signal; often absolute, and placed within interlocking limits, its aspects tend to differ from those conveyed by a taller signal for certain indications. Also called 'pot' or 'jack'.
Dynamic braking
The use of a traction motors' output, working as generators, to retard train speed without relying solely on the air brakes

E

Ejector
  1. A component of vacuum brake system usually fitted in pairs. Steam passing through a cone sucks air from the train pipe to create the vacuum.
  2. A small ejector running continuously to overcome leaks and to restore the vacuum after light braking and a large ejector operated when needed to release the brakes quickly after a heavy application or to create the initial vacuum after coupling
Electric multiple unit (EMU)
A set of electrically powered self-propelling passenger rail vehicles able to operate in multiple with other such sets
Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD)
The world's second largest builder of railroad locomotives. EMD was previously Electro-Motive Division of General Motors before being sold.
Elevated railway, el, or L
A railway built on supports over city streets
Embankment
A bank, usually of earth but sometimes of stone, constructed to form a level or minimally graded trackbed for a line of railway needing to pass over a depression in the terrain or other pre-existing surface feature. See also cutting.
Empty coaching stock (ECS)
A train used to bring carriages into (or out of) service. They usually run between sidings and main stations, with the carriages then forming a service train to another destination. They are often worked under freight train rules (e.g. without needing a guard in the UK).[71]
End-cab switcher
A switching locomotive with no short hood, thus having its cab forming one end of its carbody
Equalizing reservoir
A small air reservoir in a locomotive control stand. When the automatic brake valve is operated, this reservoir responds by reducing or increasing the air pressure in the brake pipe.[72]
Event recorder
A device that continuously captures analog and digital train systems information and stores that data for a minimum of 48 hours. This data is used to evaluate incidents and accidents. Typical stored data includes speed, brake pressure, dynamic brake, horn activation, track signal, etc. In the U.S., event recorders are mandated by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for freight, passenger and commuter rail. Regulations for railroad outside the U.S. vary by country. Transit operations are not generally required to have event recorders, but have begun to add them voluntarily.
Express train
A train that passes selected stations without stopping
Extra
A train not included in the normal schedule of a railroad[73][74][75] They often run during busy holiday travel periods in order to handle larger crowds and reduce the number of passengers that are forced to stand or are stranded at a station. In train order territory, extras are required to clear the main line for scheduled trains to pass.[76]

F

Facing
A turnout that can select which way to diverge a train—the opposite of trailing
Fairlie
A type of articulated locomotive, typically (but not exclusively) with two boilers and connected fireboxes in a central cab
Fall plate
A heavy, hinged steel plate attached in a horizontal position to the rear of the locomotive footplate or front of a locomotive tender. When the tender is attached to its locomotive the plate is allowed to fall to cover the gap in the "floor" between the two units. The sliding edge is not fixed and has a smooth chamfer so as to avoid a trip hazard.[77]
Feedwater heater
A device to preheat the water for a steam locomotive to improve efficiency
Feed valve or regulating valve
A valve which controls the amount of air pressure being channelled from the locomotive's main reservoir to the brake pipe, in accordance with the set pressure in the equalizing reservoir[78]
Fiddle yard
In railway modelling, a concealed group of sidings used to provide more realistic operation in a limited space
Firebox
In steam locomotives, a chamber in which a fire is made to produce sufficient heat to create steam once the hot gases created there are carried into the adjacent boiler via tubes or flues[79]
Fireman, stoker, or boilerman
A worker whose primary job is to shovel coal into the firebox and ensure that the boiler maintains sufficient steam pressure
Flat
A wheel defect where the tread of a wheel has a flat spot and is no longer round; flats can be heard as regular clicking or banging noises when the wheel passes by. This is caused either by a locked bearing, or a brake that was not fully released before the car was moved, dragging the wheel without turning.[80]
Flying junction or flyover
A railway junction that has a track configuration in which merging or crossing railroad lines provide track connections with each other without requiring trains to cross in front of opposing traffic on the same level[80]
Fouling point
The point of a switch turnout where a car or locomotive on one track will obstruct movement on the adjacent track[81]
Four-quadrant gates rising
Four-quadrant gate
A type of boom barrier
Free-mo
A type of modular layout in model railroading
Freight wagon (UIC)
A rail vehicle designed for the carriage of freight
Full service reduction
The maximum air pressure that can be exerted against brake pistons in a normal brake application. To increase pressure beyond this point, the brakes must be placed in emergency.[82]
A brakeman uses a fusee to demonstrate a hand signal indicating "stop"
Fusee
A pyrotechnic device similar to an automotive flare that is used in signalling[80]
Fusible plug
A threaded plug, with a soft metal core, that is screwed into the crown plate of a firebox. If the water level gets too low the core melts and the noise of the escaping steam warns the enginemen.

G

A diagram of a Garratt locomotive
Garratt
A type of steam locomotive that is articulated into three parts[83]
Gauge
The width between the inner faces of the rails
An EMD GP38-2, "General Purpose" (GP) locomotives are often called a "Geep"
Geep
Any of the GP ("general-purpose") series of Electro-Motive four-axle diesel locomotives; originally applied only to EMD GP7, GP9, and GP18 models[84]
Generator field
The control switch of a diesel-electric locomotive that opens or closes the circuit between the main generator and the traction motors[85]
Get a knuckle
To break a train in two, usually by shearing the knuckle pin in a coupler, often caused by the application of excessive head end power at startup[86][87]
GEVO
A nickname for General Electric's Evolution series of modern diesel locomotives[88][89]
Gladhand connector
A quick coupling and uncoupling connector at the end of a trainline air hose that resembles a pair of shaking hands when hoses are connected
Go-devil
A hand-powered railroad car (see Handcar and Draisine), or a small gasoline powered railroad car[90][91]
Grab bar or grab iron
A handle on the side of a car to allow switching personnel to hold on[92]
Green
A colour associated with go or proceed

H

Harmonic rock or harmonic rock and roll
The condition of locomotives and cars swaying in opposite directions when traversing depressions on the roadbed. A potentially dangerous condition that can cause coupler damage, lading damage, or derailments at slower speeds.[93][94]
Head-end power (HEP)
A scheme whereby the locomotive engine or a separate generator provides hotel power to carriages[95]
Headboard
A sign attached to a locomotive to identify a named train or charter, or for other special occasions[96]
Headstock
A transverse structural member located at the extreme end of a rail vehicle's underframe. The headstock supports the coupling at that end of the vehicle, and may also support buffers, in which case it may also be known as a "buffer beam".[97]
Heavy haul
Heavy freight operations[98][99][100]
High rail
The upper rail in a curve or superelevation which typically experiences the higher lateral loads and greater wear
Hole
A passing siding. Inferior trains "lay over in the hole" to let superior ones pass.[101]
Home signal
See absolute signal.
Horn blocks
Plates lining the axlebox cut-outs in a locomotive frame to allow smooth vertical movement under control of the springs[102][103]
Hostling
The action of shuttling a locomotive from the yard to the engine house or vice versa[104]
Hotbox
An axle bearing that has become excessively hot due to friction[95][105][106]
Hotbox detector
A device attached to the track which monitors passing trains for hot axles, and then reports the results via a radio transmission (typical in the US) or a circuit to the signal box (typical in the UK). See defect detector.[95]
The Hudson wheel arrangement
Hudson type
A steam locomotive with a 4-6-4 wheel arrangement[27][107]
Hump
A raised section in a rail sorting yard that allows operators to use gravity to move freight railcars into the proper position within the yard when making up trains of cars. This is faster and requires less effort than moving cars with a switching engine.[95]
Hunting
Swaying motion of a railway vehicle or bogie caused by the coning action on which the directional stability of an adhesion railway depends. The truck or bogie wanders from side to side between the rails, "hunting" for the optimum location based on the forces at play.[95]

I

Independent brake or locomotive brake
The braking system that applies or releases the brakes of a locomotive independently from its train[108][109]
Infill station or in-fill station
A train station built on an existing passenger line to address demand in a location between existing stations
Injector
A device to force water into a steam locomotive's boiler by steam pressure[110]
Insulated rail joint (IRJ) or insulated block joint (IBJ)
Rail joints incorporating insulation to isolate individual track circuits[111][112]
Interchange
Any track or yard where rail cars are transferred from one carrier to another[113][114]
Intermodal ship-to-rail transfer of containerized cargos at APM Terminals in Portsmouth, VA
Intermodal freight
Moving goods by more than one type of vehicle. Intermodal freight can be transported using shipping containers which can easily be transferred among railroad flatcars, ships, airplanes, and tractor-trailer trucks.[110]
Intermodal passenger
Moving people by more than one type of vehicle[110]
Island platform
A railway platform that has tracks along the full lengths of both sides

J

Joint bar or rail joiner
A metal plate that joins the ends of rails in jointed track[115]
Jointed track
Track in which the rails are laid in lengths of around 20 m and bolted to each other end-to-end by means of fishplates or joint bars[116]
Journal bearing
A bearing without rolling elements; a plain bearing[117]
A journal box complete with bearing and journal
Journal box
The housing of a journal bearing[117][118]
The Jubilee wheel arrangement
Jubilee type
A steam locomotive with a 4-4-4 wheel arrangement[119]
Junction
A point at which two lines or separate routes diverge from each other[116]

K

Keeper
A padlock or hook securing the lever of a hand-operated switch, thereby preventing the switch points from moving as rolling stock passes over them[120][121]
Kick
To shove a car a short distance and uncouple it in motion, allowing it to roll free under gravity and/or its own inertia onto a track. Commonly practiced in bowl or hump yards to make up or break down trains or classify large numbers of cars in an expedient fashion. Differs from a flying switch in that the locomotive is pushing the car rather than pulling it when the cut is made.[122]
Kicker
A freight car with a defect in its brake valve that causes the entire train's brake system to go into emergency when any application is made[123]
Kinematic envelope (KE)
The outline of the space beside and above the track that must be kept clear of obstructions for the train to pass. This can be larger than the static clearance around an unmoving engine or car.[124] See also: loading gauge and structure gauge
Knuckle
The articulating part of a coupler that locks automatically in its closed position to join rail cars; so named because its movement resembles that of the human finger[125]

L

Lead track
A non-main track from which several others branch within a short distance, such as within a rail yard or engine terminal[126]
Level crossing, railroad crossing, railway crossing, train crossing, or grade crossing
A crossing on one level ("at-grade intersection")—without recourse to a bridge or tunnel—generally of a railway line by a road or path
Light engine
A locomotive travelling on its own, or perhaps with just a caboose (brake van) attached[127]
Light rail
A city-based rail system based on tram design standards that operates mostly in private rights-of-way separated from other traffic but sometimes, if necessary, mixed with other traffic in city streets.[128] Light rail vehicles (LRV) generally have a top speed of around 55 mph (89 km/h) though mostly operating at much lower speeds, more akin to road vehicles. Light rail vehicles usually run on trackage that weighs less per foot (due to a smaller track profile) than the tracks used for main-line freight trains; thus they are "light rail" due to the smaller rails usually used.[127]
Link and pin
An obsolete method of coupling rail cars, consisting of manually dropping the coupling pin into the drawbar as the cars joined. Extremely hazardous to the brakemen of its day, it was outlawed in the United States by the Railroad Safety Appliance Act of 1893.
Local train
A train that stops at most, if not all, stations along its route[129]
Lunar
An off-white color of railway signal light, like the Moon, achieved by the use of a clear lens of very light blue, to make it distinct from a light that has a broken lens.[130][131]

M

Main generator
The electric generator in a diesel-electric locomotive that is coupled directly to the prime mover and feeds electrical energy to the traction motors[132]
Main reservoir
The compressed-air tank of a locomotive containing source air for the brakes and other pneumatic appliances[133]
Mallet
A type of articulated locomotive designed by the Swiss mechanical engineer Anatole Mallet (pronounced "mallay").[134][135] See Compound engine.
Manifest
An express freight train carrying a variety of general merchandise[136][137]
Mechanical semaphore signal
A signal in which the aspect is conveyed by moving an arm[138][139]
The Mikado wheel arrangement
Mikado type
A steam locomotive with a 2-8-2 wheel arrangement[140]
Milk train
A aggregator for transporting milk from farms to dairies, such as British Railways Milk Trains[141][142][143]
Modalohr
An inter-modal car
The Mogul wheel arrangement
Mogul type
A steam locomotive with a 2-6-0 wheel arrangement[144]
The Mountain wheel arrangement
Mountain type
A steam locomotive with a 4-8-2 wheel arrangement[145]
Mud ring
The bottom of the water space surrounding a steam locomotive's firebox that collects solid deposits distilled from the water supply during the boiling process[146]
Multiple aspect signalling
A system of colour-light signalling in which signals may show three or four aspects[147]
Multiple unit (MU)
A self-propelled rail vehicle that can be joined with compatible others and controlled from a single driving station. The sub-classes of this type of vehicle; Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU), Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) and Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) are more common terms. These may also be termed railcars.

N

Comparison between standard gauge (blue) and one common narrow gauge (red) rail spacing
Narrow gauge
Railroad track where the rails are spaced less than 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) apart,[148] often found in mountainous terrain where the cost savings of building a smaller railroad can be considerable
The Northern wheel arrangement
Northern type
A steam locomotive with a 4-8-4 wheel arrangement, also known in North America as "Pocono", "Niagara", "Confederation", "Greenbrier", and "Potomac"[149][150]
Notch 8 or run 8
The eighth notch of a locomotive throttle control, indicating full power[151][152]

O

Open wagon (UIC)
A form of freight hauling car for bulk goods[153]
Out to foul
When equipment is placed ahead of the fouling point of a switch turnout

P

The Pacific wheel arrangement
Pacific type
A steam locomotive with a 4-6-2 wheel arrangement[154]
Pannier tank
A tank locomotive where the water tanks are mounted on the boiler in pannier-like fashion
A pantograph
Pantograph
An apparatus mounted on the roof of a rail vehicle to allow the collection of electric current from overhead lines[155][156]
Paper
Colloquially, a track warrant, train order or other movement permit that is dictated by a dispatcher and copied in writing by a train crew member
Pennsy
  1. Abbreviation for the former Pennsylvania Railroad[157]
  2. A nickname for the PRR's K-4 class steam locomotive
Per diem (pronounced by some U.S. railroaders per die-um, not per dee-um)
  1. A fee paid by a rail company to the owner of a car (or wagon) for the time it spends on the company's property[155][158]
  2. An authorized living expense payment for some workers forced away from their home terminal[155][159]
Permissive signal
A block signal whose most restrictive indication is stop and proceed. A permissive signal is identified by the presence of a number plate affixed to the mast or supporting structure. Proceeding beyond a permissive signal at stop is allowed at restricted speed if operating conditions enable a train operator to stop before reaching any train or obstruction.[160][161][162]
Pilot
  1. A deflective shield affixed to the front of a locomotive to protect its wheels from on-track debris; archaically called a "cowcatcher"[163] See also: Pilot (locomotive)
  2. An employee qualified on the operating rules and physical characteristics of a certain section of the railroad, assisting a crew member who is not so qualified[164][165] See also: Railroad engineer
Pilot engine
  1. The leading locomotive during a double-heading operation[166]
  2. An unattached locomotive driven a specified distance in front of a special train[166][167][168]
Pilot man
Where it is necessary to temporarily work a section of line as single track (for instance if the other track of a double-track line is out of use), a person (the pilot man) acts as the single track token.
Piston
The moving component in the cylinder of a steam engine or internal combustion engine that translates into motion the force exerted by pressurised steam or quickly-burning fuel[169]
Piston travel
A specified distance that a brake piston may move from its cylinder to the brake rigging. If the travel exceeds or falls short of this distance, the equipment must be set out for repair.[170]
Pony truck
A two-wheel truck or bogie at the front of a locomotive[171]
Porch
The extended walkway at either end of a U.S. locomotive[172]
Porter
An employee who performs or performed (the role has now largely become obsolete) various physical duties, chiefly but not exclusively involving lifting. Various types of porter include:
  • A baggage porter assisting with luggage
  • An operating porter assisting with safeworking duties
  • A station porter assisting with general station duties
  • A lad porter being a junior station porter
Portion working
The practice of coupling two or more passenger trains together over common sections of their respective routes, but otherwise operating the trains separately[173][174]
A position light signal
Position light signal
A block signal in which the relative position of the lights determines the meaning
Positive train control (PTC)
A system of functional requirements for monitoring and controlling train movements with the aim of increasing operational safety
Possession
A period of time when one or more tracks are closed for maintenance. For the duration of the work, a person in charge of possession (PICOP) has control of the line. When work is complete the possession is relinquished and control of the line handed back to the signaller.[175]
Pound
The weight (and thus the cross section) of a length of rail. A heavier rail can carry heavier loads with less distortion and less damage to the rails themselves and the roadbed.
Power
A locomotive or group of connected (MU'd) locomotives serving as the motive power for a train[155]
Power braking
Pulling against the train brakes at the higher end of the locomotive's power output (e.g. notches five through eight on a conventional throttle). This is considered wasteful of fuel and brake shoes, and is therefore discouraged by most operating departments.[176][177]
The Prairie wheel arrangement
Prairie type
A steam locomotive with a 2-6-2 wheel arrangement[178]
Prime mover
The internal combustion engine of a diesel locomotive
Pull apart
A rail broken from cold-related contraction[179][180]
A push pole
Push pole
A pole about 12 feet (366 cm) long and having a diameter of 5 inches (127 mm) and used in the United States between 1870 and the mid-1960s to push a freight car onto or off a siding or onto another track by being placed between a locomotive (on an adjacent track) and the freight car. The two ends of the poles were placed in receptacles called push pole pockets.[181]
Push–pull
A mode of operation whereby a locomotive-hauled train may be driven with the locomotive at the front, back, or center of the train. See also: Auto train. See Top and tail for train with locomotives at both front and back.[155]

Q

Quarterly inspection or periodic inspection
A federally mandated safety inspection performed on a locomotive every 92 operating days[182]

R

Rack railway, rack-and-pinion railway, or cog railway
A steep-grade railway with a toothed rack rail (usually between the running rails), used when adhesion is insufficient
Railbus
A passenger rail vehicle (typically non-articulated or rigid frame) that was derived from bus propulsion and construction technology, but which may evolve into larger dimensions, performance, and characteristics similar in appearance to a light DMU railcar
Railcar
A powered single unit or articulated passenger car, usually “railroad-derived” light DMU or EMU, with a driver's cab at one or both ends
Railfan
A hobbyist or enthusiast of trains
Rail grinder
A machine used to remove irregularities in the surface of the rails that may be self-powered or part of a consist
Rail profiles for flat-bottom and bullhead rails
Rail profile
The cross section shape of rail. There are many rail profiles which are often specific to individual railroads. Rails need to be periodically scanned electronically, the data inspected and analysed, then re-profiled with rail grinding machines to maintain the safe and proper "rail profile". Rails that cannot be brought back to the proper rail profile are condemned and replaced.
Rail squeal
A screeching train-track friction sound, most commonly occurring on sharp curves or heavy braking[183]
Rail tractor
A small petrol (gas) or diesel shunting (switcher) locomotive
Railroad car
Any railroad vehicle other than a locomotive
Railroadiana
Artifacts of railways around the world
Railway line
  1. A railway route connecting two or more places or other railway routes[184]
  2. A railway route constructed by an organization, usually one formed for that purpose[184][185][186]
  3. A railway route which has been given the line name officially (e.g. by engineers line references in the UK)[187]
  4. A set of railway routes which are bundled for publicity purposes (e.g. a UK train operating company)[188][189]
  5. A set of railway routes without official standing, on which railfans have bestowed a title
Washington, D.C.'s Union Station is an example of a railway station
Railway station
A train station, a stopping point for trains, usually with passenger access
Railway terminal
A building for passengers at the end of a railway line
Red
A colour generally associated with stop, when shown by signals or flags
Red zone
The area between, under, or within a few feet of cars and locomotives. To enter the zone, a ground employee must obtain protection from the locomotive engineer (if a locomotive is coupled) or a blue signal (if no locomotive is coupled).[190][191][192]
Reefer
A refrigerated railcar, used to transport perishable goods[193]
Refuge siding
A siding used as a passing place on a main line, where slow trains may be held whilst an express passes—a simpler, but less convenient, form of the passing loop
Reporting mark
A two- to four-letter code, assigned by the Association of American Railroads, that is applied to equipment operating on North American railroads to identify the owner[194][195][196]
A rerail frog or rerailer
Rerail frog or rerailer
A metal casting slotted over the rail near the wheel of a derailed train car. The engine then pushes or pulls the car so that the derailed wheel runs up the rerailer and back onto the track.[197]
Retarder
A device installed in a classification yard used to reduce the speed of freight cars as they are sorted into consists[198]
Reverser or reverser handle
The handle that controls the directional control on a locomotive. See also Cut off.
Ribbon rail
Continuously welded rail[194]
Right-side failure
A failure in a signalling or other safety critical system which leaves the system in a safe condition[199]
Roadrailer
A highway trailer, or semi-trailer, that is specially equipped for direct use on a railroad
Rolling stock
  1. In UK parlance, any railway vehicle that is not capable of moving under its own power[200]
  2. In US parlance, any railroad car or locomotive[194][201][202]
Rookie
See Trainee.
Rotary
Short for rotary snowplow, an extreme-duty railroad snowplow used mainly in the mountain ranges of the American West[203]
A roundhouse and turntable, viewed from above
Roundhouse
A circular or semi-circular structure used for storage and running maintenance of locomotives
Route selector panel, punch box, or train-identification pushbuttons (New York City Subway)
A box or panel adjacent to a rail line at an interlocking, with several buttons for train operators to select a desired route, which is then either communicated to a signal tower where an operator fulfills the request, or switched automatically[204][205]
Ruling gradient
The longest or steepest grade on a division, thus setting the standard for track speeds, locomotive tonnage ratings, and train handling instructions[206]
Runaway
A heavy train that has lost speed control while descending a steep grade, due to either brake failure or poor preparation by the crew[207]
Running track
An other-than-main track, typically providing access to a yard or industry and governed by the requirements of restricted speed[208]
Platform track and a run-round loop at Toyooka Station, Hyogo, Japan, the terminus of the line from Miyazu
Run-round
The practice of detaching a locomotive from its train, driving it to the other end of the train and re-attaching it, to allow the train to proceed in the direction it has just come from (e.g. when it reaches its destination and forms a service in the other direction).[194][209]
Run-through power
Locomotives that remain attached to a manifest or unit train from their home rails over the tracks of a receiving railroad until the train reaches its final destination[210]

S

Saddle tank
A tank locomotive with the water tank mounted on top of the boiler like a saddle[211]
Safeworking
The system of rules and equipment designed to ensure the safe operation of trains[212]
Sand
A granular material sprayed onto the rail just in front of the drive wheels to improve traction
Sandbox
A container on locomotives and self-propelled multiple units, or trams, that run on tramways and adhesion railways. The container holds sand which can be dropped onto the rail to improve rail adhesion under wet, steep, or slippery rail conditions. The sandbox and operating mechanism are collectively known as sanding gear.
Sandite
Consists of a mixture of sand, aluminium, and a unique type of adhesive, used instead of plain sand for extreme slippery rail conditions
The Santa Fe wheel arrangement
Santa Fe type
A steam locomotive with a 2-10-2 wheel arrangement, named for the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway—the first railroad to use such a configuration[213][214]
Saturated locomotive
A steam locomotive not equipped with a superheater; the steam thus remains at the same temperature as the water in the boiler
Scale
Solid debris distilled from boiling water in a steam locomotive. To prevent corrosion damage from scale build-up, the locomotive must undergo a boiler wash once each operating month.[215]
Schnabel car
A specialized type of freight car for extra heavy and over sized loads where the car is loaded in such a way that the load forms part of the car superstructure
Searchlight
A signal with a single light source usually capable of displaying three different colors. An internal mechanism governs the color displayed.[211]
Section
A division of track for tracking occupation
A British lower-quadrant semaphore signal with subsidiary arm below
Semaphore signal
A type of signal that has a moving arm to change the indication
Shay locomotive
A type of geared steam locomotive built to the patents of Ephraim Shay[211]
Shunt
In UK and Australian parlance, to make up and divide trains in sidings, to move trains to or from sidings, or to move trains between platforms in a station[216]
In US parlance, to electrically bond the rails or power feeds between sections on light-rail or trolley systems, so as to temporarily bridge past dead areas
Shuttle train
A train, usually a passenger service, that runs back and forth, usually over a relatively short distance, such as between a junction station and a branch-line terminus.
Side tank
A tank locomotive with water tanks mounted each side of the boiler
Siding
A section of track off the main line. Sidings are often used for storing rolling stock or freight. A siding is also used as a form of rail access for warehouses and other businesses, where the siding will often meet up with loading docks at rail car height in the building. In the U.S. the term is also used to cover the British term: loop. Also, a passing track in the U.S.
A two-head color position signal on a CSXT mainline where the left head displays "Stop" and the right, "Clear"
Signal
A device that indicates the condition of the line ahead to the driver of a train
Signal aspect
The information conveyed to a railroad vehicle operator by a block signal. Signals may use colored lights, position-significant lights or mechanical semaphores to generate various aspects.
Signal box
A building or room which houses signal levers (usually in a frame), a control panel or a VDU-based control system
Signal passed at danger
An event in which a train passes a signal to stop without authorization to do so
Signalman
A person in charge of the signalling at a station or junction, often in a signal box
Slippery rail
The condition of fallen leaves or other debris lying on and clinging to a railroad track that could cause train wheel slippage, resulting in premature wheel wear and train delays
Slow order
A local speed restriction below the track's normal speed limit often designated by yellow and green flags. Slow orders can be imposed on a temporary basis to protect, for example, maintenance of way employees while sections of track are under repair. Widely used in areas where track is substandard and in need of repair.
Slug
A locomotive that contains traction motors yet lacks the diesel engine to create its own power, which is instead supplied by a connected mother locomotive[211]
Smokebox
An enclosed (normally cylindrical) space attached to the end of the boiler opposite the firebox on a steam locomotive (normally the front). Supports the stack/chimney; steam pipes to and from the cylinders pass through here; contains the blastpipe/exhaust nozzle where the exhaust steam is used to provide draft for the fire. In superheated locomotives, also contains the superheater header and (optionally) a front-end throttle. A smokebox door allows access for cleaning.
A Canadian National Railway prairie rail snowplow
Snowplow, snow plow, snowplough, or snow plough
A rail service vehicle used for snow removal from train tracks[217]
Snow shed
A long shelter erected over a railroad track on the side of a mountain to protect the line from avalanches and drifting[218]
Span bolster
The beam between two bogies
Two unused and one heavily corroded spikes, with an inch ruler shown for scale
Spike
A bolt, pin, or nail used to hold rails, or plates connected to the rails (known as tie plates), to sleepers (ties)
Spiral easement
See Track transition curve. Also known as tangent lead-in.[211]
A Jordan spreader
Spreader
Maintenance of way equipment designed to spread or shape ballast profiles, remove snow, clean and dig ditches as well as trim embankments
Self-propelled ultrasonic rail testing (SPURT) (India)
A self-propelled rail-defect detector car[219]
Staff and ticket
A method of safeworking involving a token[211]
Standard gauge
A gauge where the rails are spaced 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) apart—by far the most common gauge worldwide[211]
Station master
The person in charge of a station
Steam generator
A device generally used in passenger trains to create steam for heating. The steam generator is usually in the locomotive but may also be located in other cars.[211]
Steam reverser
A reversing gear worked by a steam cylinder controlled from the cab
Steward
A person in a dining car with a role similar to that of a Maitre d’Hotel
Stretch braking
Pulling against train brakes at the lower end of a locomotive's power output (e.g. notches one through four) of a conventional throttle, thus keeping coupler slack stretched and permitting smoother train handling. This is considered most effective on undulating track profiles or when dynamic braking is not available.
Subdivision
The trackage area within a division covered by a single timetable[220]
Supercharger
A mechanical device that boosts the pressure of engine intake air to above atmospheric level, causing an increase in power. Not to be confused with the blower used to scavenge the cylinders of a naturally aspirated two-stroke Diesel engine.
Superheater
A device in a steam locomotive that raises the temperature of saturated steam substantially beyond the boiling point of water, increasing power and efficiency[211]
Survey
To determine the position of constructed objects, including rail infrastructure, in relation to the earth's surface. This is accomplished by measuring angles and distances based on the principles of triangulation.
Surveyor
A person assigned to perform survey work
A pair of EMD SW900 switchers
Switchman
A railroad worker responsible for assembling trains and switching railroad cars in a yard

T

A track tamping machine
Tamping machine
Generally, a locomotive used in track maintenance and equipped with track lifting facilities, and paddles enabling ballast to be pushed beneath a rail track so as to assure its level and cant
Tank car
A type of rolling stock designed to transport liquid and gaseous commodities
Team track
A spur or siding for loading freight, often used by firms not having their own direct rail access[221]
Tender
A specialized rail car attached to a steam locomotive to carry its fuel and water supplies, along with tools and flagging equipment
Terminal railroad (or terminal railway)
A company in the United States that owns no cars of its own and transports only the railroad cars of other companies around a specific terminal station[222]
The Texas wheel arrangement
Texas type
A steam locomotive with a 2-10-4 wheel arrangement
Third rail
An electrified rail that runs along the tracks, giving power to trains. Used mostly in subways and rapid transit systems.[221]
Through coach
A passenger coach that is disconnected from one train and attached to another before continuing on with its journey, thus avoiding the need for passengers themselves to switch trains[223]
Through platform
The standard platform and track arrangement at a station. The train pulls alongside the platform, arriving from one end of the station, and may pass out the other end of the station by continuing along the same track[224]
Through routing
Combining two or more different railways onto a common length of track. This is often done to eliminate redundant trackage or improve service.
Tie plate
A plate which is bolted to sleepers, holding the rails in place
Timetable direction
The general compass direction of a railroad or subdivision, as specified by its official timetable rulebook. Only the four cardinal compass points may be used to state a train's direction of travel.
Trailer on flat car (TOFC)
Intermodal freight transport[221]
Token
A physical object given to a locomotive driver to authorize use of a particular stretch of single track
Track bed or trackbed
The foundation of rail tracks
Track bulletin
A form used by railroad employees that shows the locations of slow orders, maintenance of way work locations, and other conditions affecting the track and movement of trains
Track circuit
An electrical circuit that detects the presence of locomotives or cars (as their wheelsets electrically bond the rails) in a block of track, and provides real-time input to signaling logic
Track transition curve
The gradual application of superelevation and tighter curve radius, calculated with reference to the anticipated line speed and the final curve radius, on the approach to a bend. Also known as the transition spiral and spiral easement.
Trackside objects
See Wayobjects.
Traction motor
A large electric motor that powers the driving wheels of an electric or diesel-electric locomotive[221]
Traction supply
The electric source for the traction motors of electric trains
Tractive effort
The pulling or pushing force exerted by a locomotive or other vehicle
Trailing
A turnout where both legs merge in the direction of travel—the opposite of facing
Trainman
An employee assigned to train service, such as a conductor, brakeman, or switchman
Trainmaster
A dispatcher—the person in charge of all traffic within assigned blocks
Trainset
A group of rolling stock that is permanently or semi-permanently coupled together to form a unified set of equipment. Trainsets are most often used in passenger train configurations.
Tram
A city-based rail system that typically shares its operational space with other vehicles and often runs on, across, or down the center of city streets
Tram-train
Trams that are designed to run both on the tracks of a city-based rail system and on the existing railway networks. Tram-trains' dual-voltage capability makes it possible to operate at lower speeds on city streets and at over 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) on main line tracks allowing travel in an extended geographical area without changing the method of transport.
Treadle
A mechanical or electrical device for detecting the presence of a rail vehicle with pin-point accuracy, unlike a track circuit, which provides detection over an arbitrary distances
Turnout or points
A switch
A turntable in Toronto, Canada
Turntable
A section of track that can rotate, allowing locomotives and rolling stock to be reversed, and also allow a large number of engine maintenance sidings to be accessed in a small area

U

Unit train
A train in which all cars (wagons) carry the same commodity and are shipped from the same origin to the same destination, without being split up or stored en route[225]

V

Vacuum brake
A continuous train brake which is fail-safe in operation; the brake is powered by a vacuum from the locomotive but the application is actually by atmospheric pressure when the vacuum is released. Now largely superseded by the air brake.
Valve gear
The linkage mechanism that operates the valve for a driving cylinder, to alternately admit steam to the cylinder and then exhaust it when the piston's stroke is nearly complete[226]

W

Standpipe
A device used for delivering a large volume of water into the tank or tender of a steam locomotive
A water gauge
Water gauge or water glass
A device showing the level of water in the boiler[227]
Way car
An alternate term for a caboose used by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, Chicago and North Western Railway, and Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway[227]
Way freight
See Local train.
Wayobjects or wayside objects
Trackside objects or any structures at the wayside or beside the rail tracks usually within the right-of-way, such as railway signals, third rails, overhead lines and their supports, electrification systems, platforms, or boom barriers
Wayside
Trackside
Well tank
A type of tank locomotive. The water tank is mounted between the frame plates, beneath the cab and boiler.
Well wagon (UIC)
A flat wagon with a depressed centre used for carrying extra tall loads
Wheel
The rolling component typically pressed onto an axle and mounted on a rail car or locomotive truck or bogie. Wheels are cast or forged (wrought) and are heat treated to have a specific hardness. New wheels are trued to a specific profile before being pressed onto an axle. All wheel profiles need to be periodically monitored to insure proper wheel to rail interface. Improperly trued wheels increase rolling resistance, reduce energy efficiency and may create unsafe operation. A railroad wheel typically consists of two main parts: the wheel itself, and the tire around the outside. A railway tire is itself steel, and is typically heated and pressed onto the wheel, where it remains firmly as it shrinks and cools.
Wheel climb
The process of a wheel climbing up and often off the inside or gauge side of the rail. It is a major source of derailments. Wheel climb is more likely to occur in curves with wheels whose flanges are worn or have improper angles. See Rail adhesion.
Wheel flange
The inner section of a wheel that rides between the two rails. The angle between the wheel tread and flange is often specific to the rail to prevent wheel climb and possible derailments. See Rail adhesion. The wheel flange is part of the wheel tire.
Wheel-rail interface
The on-contact interaction between wheels and rails. The term is used in connection with the design and management of their interaction.
Wheel slip
The loss of traction due to a slippery rail or wheel. Wheel slip was common with steam engines as they started to move due to the excessive torque often generated at low speed. Steam engines carried sand dispensing gear to increase traction at the start of motion.[227]
A wheeltapper at work on the Bulgarian railway
Wheeltapper
An historical railway occupation; people employed to tap train wheels with hammers and listen to the sound made to determine the integrity of the wheel; cracked wheels, like cracked bells, do not sound the same as their intact counterparts. The job was associated with the steam age, but they still operate in some eastern European countries. Modern planned maintenance procedures have mostly obviated the need for the wheel-tapper.
Wheel tread
The slightly conical section (often with a 1 in 20 slope) of a railroad wheel that is the primary contact point with the rail. See Rail adhesion.
Whistle
Train whistles are used as a safety warning and also by the engineer to communicate to other railroad workers. See train whistle for a description of the whistle code used to communicate. Also a nickname for an air horn on a diesel locomotive. Steam engine whistles were historically known as chimes in the US during the 19th century.
A double whistle post
Whistle post
An advance warning to the engineer of an upcoming grade crossing. It is the point at which the engineer should begin sounding the whistle or horn.
Whyte notation
A system of describing steam locomotive wheel arrangements (e.g. 4-6-4, 2-10-2). The first number indicates the number of "pilot" wheels that help lead the engine into turns. The second is the number of coupled wheels ("drivers"). Third are the trailing idler wheels, usually to provide support to larger fireboxes. Articulated locomotives are similarly described. For example, a Union Pacific "Big Boy" would be described as a 4-8-8-4, wherein the pilot has four wheels, followed by two sets of drivers, eight wheels per set, and a four-wheel trailing bogie under the firebox. The numbers include the wheels on both sides of the engine, so a 2-8-2 engine would have one idler, four drivers, and a final idler on each side of the engine.
Wigwag
A largely superseded Level or Grade Crossing Warning Signal consisting of a swinging disc facing road traffic with a red light in the centre. The disc normally hangs straight down, but an approaching train will set it swinging from side to side, the red light will illuminate or flash, and a bell will ring.
Working water, foaming, or priming
The condition of a steam locomotive drawing water through its throttle valve, cylinders, and smokestack, often causing damage to the cylinders or running gear
Wrong-side failure
A failure in a signalling system that leaves the system in a dangerous condition

Y

A railroad yard in Chicago, Illinois, as seen in December 1942
Yard
A location where rolling stock is switched to and from trains, freight is loaded or unloaded, and consists made up[228]
Yardmaster
The person responsible for conducting all traffic within the yard in order to assemble or disassemble consists
Yellow
A colour associated with a warning or a need to slow down when used by flags or signals, but the exact meaning varies from railway to railway
The Yellowstone wheel arrangement
Yellowstone type
A steam locomotive with a 2-8-8-4 wheel arrangement

Z

The Lithgow Zig Zag
Zig zag or switchback
A method of climbing and descending steep gradients, where shallow-gradient track reverses direction for a while, and then reverses again to continue in the original direction

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Transport Thesaurus". UIC.org. 1995. Retrieved 20 May 2009.
  2. ↑ Ellis, Iain (2006). Ellis' British Railway Engineering Encyclopaedia. Lulu.com. p. 6. ISBN 978-1-84728-643-7.
  3. ↑ "Combined Adhesion ad Cog-Wheel Railways". The Railway News and Joint Stock Journal. London. 51 (1307): 100–101. 19 January 1889.
  4. ↑ McClellan, George B. (21 November 1854). "Memoranda on Railways". Reports of Explorations and Surveys to Ascertain the Most Practicable and Economical Route for a Railroad from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean. 1. p. 116.
  5. ↑ Wood, W. W. (1920) [first published 1909]. Wood's Westinghouse E-T Air Brake Instruction Pocket Book (second ed.). New York: The Norman W. Henley Publishing Co.
  6. ↑ "§ 238.237: Automated monitoring". The Code of Federal Regulations of the United States of America - 49: Transportation. Washington, DC: Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration. 1 October 2006. p. 691.
  7. ↑ "EPR 012: Testing of locomotive all weather adhesion" (PDF). RailCorp. October 2011. Retrieved 25 October 2014.
  8. ↑ Aylmer-Small, Sidney (1908). "Lesson 28: Alternators". Electrical railroading; or, Electricity as applied to railroad transportation. Chicago: Frederick J. Drake & Co. pp. 456–463.
  9. 1 2 "Railroading Glossary: A". TRN.Trains.com. Kalmbach Publishing. Archived from the original on 31 August 2014. Retrieved 20 February 2013.
  10. ↑ Solomon, Brian (2009). Alco Locomotives. MBI Publishing Company. p. 8. ISBN 9781616731366.
  11. ↑ White (1968), p. 46.
  12. ↑ US 1031835, Richard Webb Burnett, "Angle-Cock Hanger for Air-Brake Pipes of Railway Cars", published 9 July 1912, assigned to Richard Webb Burnett
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