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Resistance due to Gradients is considered because whenever a train has to move along the rising gradient, first it has to experience and overcome resistance due to rising gradient. This resistance is directly proportional to the weight of the train and the slope percentage.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the additional resistance a train experiences when moving along an inclined gradient, which must be overcome by the locomotive's tractive effort.
Details: Accurate calculation of gradient resistance is crucial for determining the required tractive effort of locomotives, designing railway routes, and ensuring efficient and safe train operations on inclined tracks.
Tips: Enter the weight of the train in tonnes and the slope percentage. All values must be valid (weight > 0, slope percentage ≥ 0).
Q1: Why is gradient resistance important in railway engineering?
A: Gradient resistance directly affects the power requirements of locomotives and influences the maximum train loads that can be hauled on specific routes.
Q2: How does slope percentage affect resistance?
A: Resistance increases linearly with slope percentage - a higher gradient results in greater resistance that must be overcome.
Q3: What are typical slope percentages in railway design?
A: Most mainline railways have gradients between 1-2%, while mountain railways may have gradients up to 6-8% with special traction systems.
Q4: Does this formula work for descending gradients?
A: For descending gradients, the resistance becomes negative, meaning it assists the train's movement rather than resisting it.
Q5: Are there other factors that affect train resistance?
A: Yes, besides gradient resistance, trains also experience rolling resistance, air resistance, curve resistance, and acceleration resistance.