As a model aircraft enthusiast, having the right tools is essential for a successful and enjoyable building...
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As a model aircraft enthusiast, what tools should I have?Read more -
What should I set the pressure to on my airbrush?Read moreMost airbrushes will come with a pressure regulator built-in, but what is this facility for, and which pressure...
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Some paint varnishes are labelled as glaze and some as gloss. What is the difference between them?Read moreGlaze and gloss are both terms used in the world of finishes and coatings, but they have different meanings and...
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In wargaming, what scale is 15mm?Read moreIn a world where modelling is becoming an increasingly popular past time, we are used to scale being a definitive...
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Which switch do I need for a three-aspect analogue colour light signal?Read moreMost toggle or lever switches used on a model railway feature just two positions. A type called an SPDT switch (on/on...
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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