Quote:
Originally Posted by Ploughman
My query is why did the train split and at least 1 coach jacknifed round.
Normal design is to aim to maintain connection and remain in line through the couplings.
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This is certainly true when all vehicles are of a similar mass. In most modern derailments the couplings/bars play a significant role in keeping the train together, and hopefully upright.
However in this consist the loco is at the rear. At the instant that the leading vehicle is in collision it is decelerating rapidly, whilst most of the mass of the train is still trying to push it forwards due to inertia.
Since modern carriages are designed to maintain their integrity and not concertina, I guess they have to dissipate the enormous energy of the impact by trying to move perpendicular to the direction of travel.
BW