This test measures and documents the traction effort and braking force capabilities of railway vehicles under specified operational conditions. The test determines maximum driving force, acceleration profiles, and braking deceleration rates to establish a vehicle's dynamic performance envelope. Accurate documentation of these forces is essential for train operation planning, safety assurance, infrastructure loading assessment, and driver safety training. Rolling stock manufacturers, railway operators, infrastructure managers, and certification bodies rely on this testing. ISO 17025 accreditation ensures measurements are traceable, reproducible, and meet the rigorous standards required for railway system safety and interoperability across Europe.
What it measures
Maximum traction force at wheel-rail interface
Acceleration force and power output characteristics
Service and emergency braking force magnitudes
Braking deceleration rates under various conditions
Rolling stock manufacturers and designersRailway operators and train companiesRailway infrastructure operatorsVehicle certification and approval authoritiesRailway maintenance and technical support services
Related Standards
EN 14531-1Railway applications — Braking systems — Part 1: General terminology and calculations
EN 15892Railway applications — Vehicle dynamics — On-track test methods
EN 12663-1Railway applications — Structural requirements of railway vehicle bodies — Part 1: Locomotives and passenger rolling stock
Scope