Mechanics of trains

Possess basic knowledge of the mechanics involved in trains, understand the technicalities and participate in discussions on related topics in order to solve problems related to the mechanics.

train mechanical features
principles of train mechanics
mechanical composition of trains
mechanical principles of train operation
train operating mechanics
mechanical features of trains
train mechanical functions
mechanical operation of trains
mechanical aspects of train operation
mechanical functions of trains
train mechanics

knowledge

cross-sector

Mechanics of trains is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Rolling stock engineering technician: Rolling stock engineering technicians carry out technical functions to help rolling stock engineers with the design, development, manufacturing and testing processes, installation and maintenance of rail vehicles such as wagons, multiple units, carriages and locomotives. They also conduct experiments, collect and analyse data and report their findings.
Shunter: Shunters move shunting units with or without wagons or groups of wagons in order to build trains. They manage the driving of locomotives and are involved in switching wagons, making or splitting up trains in shunting yards or sidings. They operate according to the technical features, such as controlling movement via a remote control device.
Occupational railway instructor: Occupational railway instructors teach future occupational drivers of railway transportation, such as train, tram, metro and trolley drivers how to operate their railway vehicle according to regulations. They teach their students theory and techniques on how to optimally drive and maintain their specific railway vehicle, observe and evaluate the students’ practice. They also focus on non-driving related subjects such as customer service (in case of person transportation) and safety measure regulations.
Rail maintenance technician: Rail maintenance technicians execute routine inspections of railway tracks, powerlines, signage stations, switches, and other railway infrastructure. They are also sent out to repair defects quickly, safely, and at any time of the day or night.
Rolling stock engine tester: Rolling stock engine testers test the performance of diesel and electric engines used for locomotives. They position or give directions to workers positioning engines on the test stand. They use hand tools and machinery to position and connect the engine to the test stand. They use computerised equipment to enter, read and record test data such as temperature, speed, fuel consumption, oil and exhaust pressure.

Rolling stock assembler: Rolling stock assemblers use hand tools, power tools and other equipment such as lifting equipment or robots to construct, fit and install prefabricated parts to manufacture rolling stock subassemblies and body structures. They read and interpret blueprints. They operate control systems to determine functional performance of the assemblies and adjust accordingly.
Rolling stock engine inspector: Rolling stock engine inspectors inspect diesel and electric engines used for locomotives to ensure compliance with standards and regulations. They conduct routine, post-overhaul, pre-availability and post-casualty inspections. They provide documentation for repair activities and technical support to maintenance and repair centers. They review administrative records, analyse the operating performance of engines and report their findings.
Rolling stock assembly inspector: Rolling stock assembly inspectors use measuring and testing equipment to inspect and monitor rolling stock assemblies to ensure conformity to engineering specifications and to safety standards and regulations. They examine the assemblies to detect malfunction and damage and check repair work. They also provide detailed inspection documentation and recommend action where problems were discovered.
Rolling stock assembly supervisor: Rolling stock assembly supervisors coordinate the employees involved in rolling stock manufacturing and schedule their activities. They prepare production reports and recommend measures to reduce the cost and improve productivity such as hiring, ordering new equipment and implementing new production methods. They train employees in company policies, job duties and safety measures. They oversee the supplies and communicate with other departments to avoid unnecessary interruptions of the production process.
Rail traffic controller: Rail traffic controllers operate signals and points that help make sure trains run safely and on time. They operate from a signal box in order to control the order and movement of trains and ensure safety at all times. They are responsible for maintaining safety standards when trains are running normally and also in degraded or emergency operational situations.
Rolling stock electrician: Rolling stock electricians install, maintain and repair electrical and electronic systems in rail vehicles such as air conditioning systems, lamps, heating systems, electrical wiring etc. They use diagnostic testing equipment to inspect vehicles and find faults. To do repair work, they use hand tools and specialised electrical instruments and machines.

Mechanics of trains is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Diesel engine mechanic: Diesel engine mechanics repair and maintain all types of diesel engines. They use hand tools, precision measuring instruments, and machine tools to diagnose trouble, disassemble engines, and to examine and exchange parts of defect and excessive wear.
Rolling stock engineering drafter: Rolling stock engineering drafters convert the rolling stock engineers’ designs into technical drawings usually using software. Their drawings detail dimensions, fastening and assembling methods and other specifications used in the manufacture of rail vehicles such as locomotives, multiple units, carriages and wagons.
Industrial engineer: Industrial engineers design a vast array of production systems aiming to present efficient and effective solutions. They integrate a varied number of variables such as workers, technology, ergonomics, production flows, and product specifications for the design and implementation of production systems. They can specify and design for microsystems as well.
Mechanical engineer: Mechanical engineers research, plan and design mechanical products and systems and supervise the fabrication, operation, application, installation and repair of systems and products. They research and analyse data.
Railway car upholsterer: Railway car upholsterers create manufacturing templates, manufacture and assemble interior components for train carriages. They use power tools, hand tools and CNC machines to prepare and fasten materials. They also inspect incoming materials and prepare the vehicle interior for trim items.
Rolling stock engineer: Rolling stock engineers design and oversee the manufacturing process and installation of rail vehicles, including locomotives, carriages, wagons and multiple units. They design new trains and electrical or mechanical parts, supervise modifications and resolve technical problems. They also perform routine maintenance duties to ensure that trains are in good condition and meet quality and safety standards.
Train driver: Train drivers operate trains providing passenger or cargo transport services. They are responsible for driving the locomotive in safe manner, respecting all relevant safety, operational and communication regulations, and have full responsibility for the safety of passengers and cargo. The task involves cooperation and communication with the relevant staff under the infrastructure manager, as well as with staff on board the train.
Vocational teacher: Vocational teachers instruct students in their specialised field of study, which is predominantly practical in nature. They provide theoretical instruction in service of the practical skills and techniques that the students must subsequently master in the specialised vocation of their choice and aid in the development of the according attitudes and values. Vocational teachers monitor the students progress, assist individually when necessary, and evaluate their knowledge and performance on the subject through assignments, tests and examinations.
Transport technology vocational teacher: Transport technology vocational teachers instruct students in their specialised field of study, transport technology, which is predominantly practical in nature. They provide theoretical instruction in service of the practical skills and techniques the students must subsequently master for a transport technology-related profession, such as automotive brake technician. Transport technology vocational teachers monitor the students’ progress, assist individually when necessary, and evaluate their knowledge and performance on the subject of transport technology through assignments, tests and examinations.
Aerodynamics engineer: Aerodynamics engineers perform aerodynamics analysis to make sure the designs of transport equipment meet aerodynamics and performance requirements. They contribute to designing engine and engine components, and issue technical reports for the engineering staff and customers. They coordinate with other engineering departments to check that designs perform as specified. Aerodynamics engineers conduct research to assess adaptability of equipment and materials. They also analyse proposals to evaluate production time and feasibility.
Drafter: Drafters prepare and create technical drawings using a special software or manual techniques, to show how something is built or works.
Material stress analyst: Material stress analysts plan and use software to perform structural analyses including static, stability and fatigue analyses on a variety of machines. They develop analysis of primary and secondary structures. They prepare technical reports to document their analysis results, participate in design reviews and recommend process improvements. They also assist in the development of structural test plans.

References

1. Mechanics of trains – ESCO