When a locomotive (or other powered vehicle) begins motoring or braking, the distribution of weight on the axles changes due to the shift in the body weight. This can give rise to wheels slipping or sliding. Modern systems of motor and brake control can reduce the risk but never eliminate it entirely. See also Creep Control

Axle mounted contact used to provide a return path for power circuits on electric vehicles. Nowadays normally mounted on the axle end as part of the axlebox assembly.

A pneumatic isolating cock used on railway vehicles to shut off and/or drain air pipes (hoses) between vehicles. They are normally positioned at vehicle ends to allow the inter-connecting hoses to be isolated and drained of air before being uncoupled. Brake pipe angle cocks do not have bleed holes to drain hoses.

Part of an automatic fare collection (AFC) system where the device is placed at station entrances and exits to regulate access by reading a ticket inserted by the passenger and restricting access if the ticket is not correct. Various types are in use around the world to prevent passenger fraud and to permit the handling of large numbers of passenge [..]

The system in railway signalling whereby a route which has been set up for an approaching train is electrically and mechanically locked as the train approaches and while it passes through the route. The route is secured by the control system which prevents any conflicting routes being set up or signals being cleared. It is additionally secured by t [..]

Transverse member in traditional UK bogie

See foot iron

Association of American Railroads. US body for determination of railway engineering standards, equivalent to the European UIC

Any road load which falls outside the scope of the Construction and Use Regulations because of its weight or weight distribution.RT

In UK railway signalling terms, 'acceptance' means the permission given by a signalman for a train to enter the section of line he controls.