Braking Distance, Sighting

Distance
1

&
Visibility of Signals
 Braking Distance
2

The distance travelled by a train after its brakes are

applied is known as the Braking Distance.
When normal or service brakes are applied (shutting
off power and gradual application of brakes), the
distance travelled is called Service Braking
Distance (SBD).
When emergent brakes are applied (shutting off
power and full application of brakes), the distance
travelled is called Emergency Braking Distance
(EBD).
 Braking Distance
3

• Braking distance is a function of speed, brake

power, gradient, condition and type of rolling stock,
condition of rails, curvature, wind speed etc.
• Since these factors are difficult to assess, trials are
conducted by RDSO to determine the EBDs of
different types of trains, locomotives etc. at various
speeds and results are published and circulated
periodically.
 Sighting Distance
4

 Sighting distance is the distance over which the

most restrictive aspect of a signal is visible from
the locomotive cab.
 Every signal must be so located as to provide the
minimum SD necessary for it.
 After sighting a signal, the driver reacts to it and
then applies brakes (if required).
 Reaction Distance (RD) is the distance travelled by
the train during this time. Therefore, SD should be
equal to or more than RD+EBD.
 Sighting Distance for FSS
5

 For 2 aspect signals, since there is no pre-

warning,
SD = RD + EBD

 For multi aspect signals, since there is pre-

warning,
SD = RD only (because EBD is
available between the sighted signal and the
next signal where the train may have to stop).
 Sighting Distance for other signals
6

 It is a good practice to ensure that in a

station yard every signal is visible from the
signal next in rear.

 EBD for full load passenger trains on level

gradient at 100 KMPH is typically about
1200m.
 Visibility of Signals
7
TWO ASPECT SIGNALS
 Outer Signal:
 1200 Metres in sections where the sectional
speed is 100 KMPH or above.
 800 Metres where sectional speed is less than
100 KMPH.
 Where minimum visibility as above cannot be
achieved, Warner may be separated.
 With the Warner separated, the minimum
visibility of Outer shall not be less than 400
meters.
 Visibility of Signals
8

Other signals
 Warner on a post by itself : 400 Metres
 Home Signal : 400 Metres
 Main Starter Signal : 400 Metres
 All Other Signals : 200 Metres
 Where adequate visibility of stop signals cannot be
provided, repeating or co-acting signals shall be
provided to ensure combined visibility.
 In case the combined visibility is less than the
distances prescribed above, speed restrictions shall
be imposed.
 Visibility of Signals
9

MULTIPLE ASPECT SIGNALS

 Distant Signal 400 Metres

 Inner Distant Signal 200 Metres (where provided)
 All Stop Signals 200 Metres

If it is not possible to ensure 200 Metres (7 to 8

seconds) continuous visibility of any stop signal
while approaching it, a suitable speed restriction
shall be imposed.
 10

END