Rail Vehicle
Testing

This book explores many different areas of testing on all types of traction and rolling stock in the 1980s and 1990s; providing readers with an in depth insight into the different aspects of testing, supported by photos of the tests and test trains.

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Detailed descriptions are provided of the test coaches and locomotives used to facilitate the on-track testing, and the reasons why testing was undertaken; investigating the static and dynamic tests associated with freight vehicle running characteristics, braking systems and the structural integrity of freight vehicles. On-track plant vehicle testing, passenger rolling stock and locomotive tests are also covered; as well as special investigations and modification tests.

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The book appendices detail dynamic test runs totalling nearly 700 tests between 1983 and 1999.

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All in all this book takes an in depth look at an area of the railway industry that is not often written about, bringing to life the subject for those with an interest in the technical background as well as the enthusiast looking back at the history of test train workings in the 1980s and 1990s.