An investigation on braking systems used in railway vehicles

The high safety and comfort expectations under varying conditions have required the development of brake systems in railway vehicles. The main factors affecting the performance and function of the brake system are braking force, mass and speed of the vehicles, stopping or braking distance, railway condition and environmental factors. In this work, the brake systems such as disc and tread brakes, dynamic brakes, aerodynamic brakes, vacuum brakes, electro-pneumatic brakes have been reviewed. The braking systems are examined in two main groups as adhesion dependent and independent brakes. Evaluations have been made on brake disc-pad mechanisms which are the most important components in all brake systems in terms of safe operation especially for freight and high-speed trains. In this context, the experimental and numerical analysis studies on the interactions of brake system components including brake disk-pad geometries and material properties have been considered. Accordingly, research and development studies based on finite element modeling and prototype manufacturing is recommended in order to produce high efficiency and safety brake systems compatible with rail system vehicle. The information obtained from these studies will indirectly contribute to sustainability. Furthermore, this review study focused on the detailed analysis of scientific and applied research can contribute to the productivity of institutions and organizations operating in the braking systems of railway vehicles.