What is the braking principle of high-speed trains?
3 Answers
The basic braking devices of motor cars and trailers are equipped with pressure-boosting cylinders and hydraulic disc devices that perform air-to-electric conversion. In a formation consisting of 4 motor cars and 4 trailers, the trailers employ full mechanical braking. The EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) adopts a composite braking method, where motor cars use electric braking + air braking, and trailers use air braking. Regarding the switching between regenerative braking and air braking, a coordinated control of electric and air braking is implemented. The braking control device determines the magnitude of the braking force, and when the braking force is insufficient, air braking supplements it. Extended information: During braking, motor cars prioritize regenerative braking. Each carriage is equipped with an acceleration and braking system, accelerating and braking simultaneously. When braking, regenerative braking is prioritized, which involves reversing the engine into a generator, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy. If the braking force is insufficient, adjacent trailers then apply air braking. If it is still insufficient, the motor cars will additionally apply air braking.
The braking system of high-speed trains is actually quite advanced. From my usual research on these mechanical devices, I found that it primarily relies on the coordinated operation of regenerative braking and friction braking. Regenerative braking can convert the kinetic energy generated during braking into electrical energy, storing it back into the battery or feeding it back into the grid, thereby reducing energy waste—this is particularly efficient at high speeds. Once the speed drops to a certain level, friction braking takes over, using brake discs or pads to slow down the train, preventing overheating and malfunctions. The entire system is computer-controlled, constantly monitoring speed and temperature to ensure safe deceleration without loss of control. Regular maintenance is crucial, with periodic inspections of component wear to ensure responsive braking. This design not only saves energy and is environmentally friendly but also significantly enhances passenger safety, especially on hilly or sharp-turn sections, where the braking is so smooth that you barely feel any bumps.
During my high-speed rail travels, I paid special attention to the smoothness of braking, which is much less abrupt compared to conventional trains. The principle involves the coordinated action of electromagnetic braking and air braking: when the train decelerates, the electromagnetic system generates a reverse magnetic field to absorb kinetic energy, converting it into electricity; meanwhile, air braking uses compressed air to push brake pads, assisting in deceleration. The entire process is intelligently adjusted by sensors and computers to avoid sudden braking shocks. I’ve also heard that this system can recover a significant amount of energy, reducing fuel consumption and being environmentally friendly. Daily maintenance is simpler, with less frequent part replacements, but regular inspections of tracks and consideration of weather impacts—like preventing skids in rainy conditions—are crucial. Overall, the braking design ensures a comfortable and safe journey.
