Driving Efficiency

Driving freight trains is all about efficiency. The more the driver is aware of the physics and economy involved in train operation, the more cost effective they’ll make the deliveries .

The skills to cost saving can all be gained from hands-on experience with driving, getting to know the railway network better and studying the vehicle catalog . Here are some of the tips that could help becoming a more efficient train driver:

Deciding on the switch directions to one’s destination well in advance. Switch locations and orientations should never be a surprise when neared.

Avoiding collisions. When approaching a vehicle for coupling , a way to ensure low speed of contact is to first stop at a safe distance, then proceed at very low speed until contact.

Choosing the right pulling power for the given train weight. Having too little power may cause the train to stall uphill, whereas having too much may be too costly to pay off with fuel and other costs. The driver should try to find an ideal match and, if necessary, take multiple locomotives in multiple-unit configuration .

Controlling the steam production. With steam engines , the driver should be careful not to produce too much steam as any steam that doesn’t end up being used is wasted fuel.

Utilizing the limits of derailment . Time is money, so the driver shouldn’t drive too slowly. Once they understand the derailment limits, they should aim to maximize their speed in accordance with the speed limit signs .

Utilizing the limits of a vehicle’s powertrain . Once the driver gets a feel for the limits of powertrain overheating and traction loss , they should plan accordingly at what sections of the track they can accelerate and decelerate as strongly as possible, or even use tools such as sand and slugs .

Using momentum to coast. Trains are heavy, so once one is up to speed the driver can often disengage the throttle and still keep moving for a long distance, while saving fuel.

Learning the route for key grade and speed variations . The driver should make sure to timely observe the signs, but also memorize them. Like following a raceline on the circuit, the best way to drive a train efficiently is to know the route by heart and take the most optimal actions at very specific moments.

Utilizing gravity to control speed on grades . The driver should let the gravity accelerate and decelerate their train where applicable, and only use power and brakes as supplements to that force.

Utilize methods of dynamic braking . Whether it’s to help slow down faster, or reduce stress on the mechanical brakes , dynamic brakes are another valuable tool in maximizing efficiency.