An autofrog is a type of track switch that is designed to simplify wiring and eliminate the need for additional...
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What is an autofrog and where would it be used on a layout?Read more -
What is the best way to temporarily attach wagon loads?Read moreThere are many ways to attach loads to your wagons: Blu Tack, double sided sticky tape and magnets are just a few,...
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Is lighting for model buildings difficult to install?Read moreThere are a couple of manufacturers of building lighting out there that claim their products are easy to install. But...
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What colour primer was used in WWII armour?Read moreRust prevention is pretty much at the top of the list when it comes down to criteria for military primers. Because of...
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What are my options for motorising a turntable on my layout?Read moreThere are several options for motorising a turntable on a model railway layout, including:Manual operation: The most...
What is the purpose of a brake van?
Brake vans (originally called break vans) were first employed on early industrial tramways and cableways to provide braking should coupling fail. They were needed because early wagons didn't have brakes of their own. These types of wagons are known as un-fitted wagons.
As the railways developed through the 19th century, many practices from the early tramways were inherited, including the use of brake vans.
Brake vans started to appear with enclosed cabins for the guard and creature comforts such as a seat, fireplace and stove were installed. Brake vans also carried a variety of tools to assist the guard with coupling, breakdowns and emergencies. As trains got longer and heavier, brake vans were also used to help with regular service braking as well as runaway situations.
The use of brake vans on un-fitted and part-fitted trains remained commonplace until the mass introduction of fitted wagons during the 1960s and '70s and even longer in some circumstances.
Posted in: Rolling stock
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