A penalty brake pipe application reduces the brake pipe pressure at _____ ft/sec.

A penalty brake pipe application reduces the brake pipe pressure at _____ ft/sec.

• A. 540
• B. 360
• C. 720
• D. 600

Answer: (A)

Penalty brake pipe application is designed to vent air from the brake pipe so the pressure drops rapidly, triggering the brakes along the train. The rate at which this brake pipe pressure falls is specified as 540 ft/sec, which provides a fast enough response for a prompt, uniform brake application without risking excessive system shock. This fixed rate is the standard reference for this type of brake action, whereas other rates would alter the timing of the braking response and are not used in this context.

Penalty brake pipe application is designed to vent air from the brake pipe so the pressure drops rapidly, triggering the brakes along the train. The rate at which this brake pipe pressure falls is specified as 540 ft/sec, which provides a fast enough response for a prompt, uniform brake application without risking excessive system shock. This fixed rate is the standard reference for this type of brake action, whereas other rates would alter the timing of the braking response and are not used in this context.