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Old 18th November 2019, 03:57
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aussiesteve aussiesteve is offline
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Join Date: Dec 2017
Location: Bathurst
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The ATSB have published a limited summary of the BHP Whyalla train run-away.
The cause being determined as a pneumatic control isolation issue.
This occurring during the change-over from remote belt pack operation to in cab operation.
When ever any alteration to a train air brake system is affected by closing isolating taps, the air pressure should be totally exhausted.
Otherwise a back pressure can be created that can actually release the train brakes.
I remember an incident up in the Hunter Valley some many moons ago.
The crew working an empty coalie had to run-around the train in a siding to change direction of travel.
When detaching the locos from the train, the brake pipe air pressure was only partially exhausted before the tap was closed.
While the locos were wandering around the train, it began to roll away.
I forget the exact location, but remember squizzing a photo of the signalman's chair on the ground.
The locoless coalie derailed and slammed into the signalbox.
Thankfully, nobody was killed.
It was mandated after that incident that the brake pipe pressure MUST be fully exhausted when detaching from a train.
Amusing that due to the SA Gov not funding the ATSB, they have discontinued any further investigation.
https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications...r/ro-2019-015/
Steve.
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