1. Different braking processes

The braking of a rail vehicle can be ensured :

• or by a dynamic brake – the braking effort is generated by using the train's inertia. This category includes :

  • electrodynamic braking: the traction motors are electric, powered either from a power supply external to the convoy, or from a generator driven by a diesel engine,

  • the hydrodynamic brake: the traction motor is diesel-powered, and power is transmitted hydraulically to the axles,

  • Eddy-current brakes on discs or rails;

• or by a friction brake – braking force is produced by friction between one material and another. This category includes :

  • shoe brake,

  • disc brake,

  ...