Amtrak Train Cars and Power Systems Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is a key feature of MARC II cars regarding passenger entry in the event of a derailment?

The seats are removable for easier access.

Interior luggage racks can be easily collapsed.

The doors can be manually opened from the outside. (correct)

They have only one exterior door for entry.

What is the primary material used in the exterior shell of MARC II passenger cars?

Steel

Plastic

Aluminum

Stainless Steel (correct)

What safety item is NOT included in the emergency equipment aboard a MARC II car?

Life raft (correct)

First aid kit

Tool kit

Portable fire extinguisher

How can a responder enter a MARC II car if the weather stripping malfunctions?

Cut the rubber with a knife or sharp tool. Signup and view all the answers

What is the weight of each MARC II passenger car?

100,000 lbs Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if the train door lacks electric power?

Use an emergency exit window or end door. Signup and view all the answers

Which component is unique to the door mechanism of MARC II cars?

Electrically operated sliding doors. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the design of MARC II cars contributes to passenger safety during a collision?

Heavy stainless steel construction. Signup and view all the answers

How can Amfleet I interior doors be unlocked from the inside?

Through an emergency release marked on the door. Signup and view all the answers

What controls the manual latch for the exterior doors of MARC II cars?

A handle on the inside of the door. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if the weather stripping around an Amfleet II door does not deflate?

Puncture it with a knife or sharp tool. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the Amfleet II exterior doors?

They have handles on both sides of the door. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the Amfleet II door is latched on the inside?

The door cannot be opened from the inside. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is present on both Amfleet I and Amfleet II cars?

Automatically inflating weather stripping. Signup and view all the answers

Where is the emergency release handle for Amfleet I doors located?

In the ceiling above the door. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the standard Amtrak coach key for the exterior doors?

To unlock the exterior locks that are usually not locked. Signup and view all the answers

What feature distinguishes converted Amtrak passenger cars from typical baggage cars?

Converted passenger cars have end doors Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is typically not a personnel member on a freight train?

Passenger attendant Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the WSAD in the context of Metrorail incidents?

To ensure the third rail is de-energized Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of the conductor on a freight train?

To oversee train and crew operations Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is employed to test for an energized third rail?

HotStick Signup and view all the answers

During a Metrorail incident, when should the WSAD be verified for proper operation?

Daily before operation Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the ROCC in a Metrorail incident?

To confirm that power has been de-energized Signup and view all the answers

What must be done after verifying that the third rail is de-energized?

HotStick the affected areas Signup and view all the answers

What must be done before placing the WSAD on its side?

Ensure both paddles are attached to the rails and indicator lights are illuminated Signup and view all the answers

What color paddle is placed on the top of the 3rd rail?

Red paddle Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Crash Energy Management System (CEMS)?

To absorb and disperse energy from impacts Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the train wheels before proceeding with railcar operations?

Chock the wheel in the front and rear Signup and view all the answers

How many new 7000 series Metro railcars are currently on order?

528 railcars Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to have permission before entering the roadway?

To ensure personal safety Signup and view all the answers

What feature is unique to the fire service in the new 7000-Series Metro railcars?

Stainless-steel body Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the operator keys down in the 7000 Series?

The brake automatically sets Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the toggle switch located in the overhead console of MARC cab cars?

To lower the pantograph or cut off fuel to the diesel locomotive Signup and view all the answers

What type of power can stationary passenger trains receive when not attached to a locomotive?

Ground power through cables connected to circuit breakers Signup and view all the answers

What should railroad employees avoid doing with HEP cables?

De-energizing a train by pulling apart cables Signup and view all the answers

What is the emergency brake handle in each passenger car primarily used for?

To stop the train while it is in motion Signup and view all the answers

At what pressure do the main-reservoir lines operate in the air brake system of locomotives?

140 psi Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions regarding air brake lines is correct?

They must be handled only by railroad personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the emergency brake handle is pulled on a stationary train?

The brakes will be applied and cannot be released. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the air brake lines in locomotives?

To control the brakes of the train Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method to open VRE windows from the outside?

Pulling external gaskets Signup and view all the answers

Which method is preferred for removing MARC windows to avoid the hazard of broken glass?

The zip-strip removal method Signup and view all the answers

What should NEVER be used to cut Lexan polycarbonate windows?

A circular saw Signup and view all the answers

What type of tool is recommended for cutting through structural supports of train cars?

Cutting torch Signup and view all the answers

What may occur if a tool is swung at Lexan polycarbonate windows?

It could rebound dangerously Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when attempting to cut the floor of a passenger car?

High-pressure air lines Signup and view all the answers

In extreme situations, what technique can be used to shatter Lexan polycarbonate windows?

Using a carbon dioxide extinguisher then a Halligan bar Signup and view all the answers

Why should MARC and VRE windows be opened differently?

Because of the different materials used in MARC and VRE windows Signup and view all the answers

What feature keeps the truck assemblies connected to the body of passenger cars?

A supplementary restraining device Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of jumpers, pigtails, or HEP cables in passenger train cars?

To connect the locomotive's power to the train cars Signup and view all the answers

In terms of identifying the ends of the car, which end is designated as the 'B' end?

The end with the hand brake Signup and view all the answers

How can emergency response personnel shut down HEP from diesel-electric locomotives?

By using the emergency shut-offs on the side of the locomotives Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge when searching passenger car interiors during an emergency?

The car may be on its side or obscured by smoke Signup and view all the answers

What should personnel do before attempting to remove HEP cables?

Confirm HEP has been de-energized by a train crewmember Signup and view all the answers

What is a common fire risk area in passenger railcars?

Inside the trash cans Signup and view all the answers

Which component allows for a quick stop of freight cars in the event of a derailment?

The gravity drop mechanism Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of HEP source shut-offs in the train's system?

To provide a means to remove HEP without shutting down the locomotive Signup and view all the answers

How can totally electric locomotives be shut down?

By lowering and latching pantographs Signup and view all the answers

What materials primarily make up the interiors of passenger cars?

Fire-resistant materials Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured when multiple locomotives are used in a train?

Only the locomotive nearest to the train cars provides HEP Signup and view all the answers

What determines the left and right sides of a train car?

The perspective from the 'B' end facing the 'A' end Signup and view all the answers

What occurs when either the pantographs are lowered or the catenary system is grounded?

The HEP system will also shut down Signup and view all the answers

What can cause all non-metal materials in a passenger car to burn when ignited?

Diesel fuel from the locomotive Signup and view all the answers

What safety precaution should be taken to isolate individual train cars from HEP?

Throw breakers in the electrical control cabinet of each car Signup and view all the answers

What material are Amtrak windows made of?

Lexan polycarbonate Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a window is removed from an Amtrak railcar?

The railcar cannot continue its journey as occupied Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is required to open emergency windows from the inside of the car?

Pull the red handle and then use the handles on the glass Signup and view all the answers

How can windows on Amtrak cars be opened from outside?

By following the sequence on a posted decal Signup and view all the answers

What happens when some emergency windows are opened from the inside?

Only one half of the window assembly may be removed Signup and view all the answers

What unique safety consideration should be noted when opening windows from the outside?

There may be a nine-foot drop to the ground Signup and view all the answers

What can be used if conditions do not fully warrant removing a window?

The luggage rack between the upper and lower levels Signup and view all the answers

What type of glass is used in VRE and MARC passenger cars?

Multi-ply safety glass Signup and view all the answers

What station is associated with the code G03?

Addison Road - Seat Pleasant Signup and view all the answers

Which line serves the station named Franconia-Springfield?

F06 Signup and view all the answers

Which station's code is C10?

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Signup and view all the answers

What is the route code for the station named Rockville?

A14 Signup and view all the answers

Which station is paired with the route 806/E06?

Rhode Island Ave - Brentwood Signup and view all the answers

What line does the station known as Archives-Navy Memorial - Penn Quarter belong to?

F02 Signup and view all the answers

Which station corresponds to the code F02?

Friendship Heights Signup and view all the answers

Which line serves the station named Arlington Cemetery?

C06 Signup and view all the answers

What is the station code for Friendship Heights?

F02 Signup and view all the answers

Which station is associated with the route code G@O?

Rosslyn Signup and view all the answers

What station's code is YL?

Addison Road - Seat Pleasant Signup and view all the answers

What station listed has a two-letter route code starting with A?

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Signup and view all the answers

Which station has the route code 804?

Rhode Island Ave - Brentwood Signup and view all the answers

What line does the station named Gallery Pl-Chinatown belong to?

G@O Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the 'A' and 'B' ends of a train car?

The presence of the hand brake. Signup and view all the answers

What is a main hazard that can ignite non-metal materials in passenger cars?

Diesel fuel from the locomotive. Signup and view all the answers

What device is primarily used to keep the center pin securely connected to the truck assemblies on passenger cars?

Supplementary restraint device. Signup and view all the answers

What may complicate the search of a passenger car in an emergency situation?

The train car's orientation and visibility issues. Signup and view all the answers

Which component of passenger cars weighs significantly more than ten tons?

The truck assemblies. Signup and view all the answers

What role does gravity play in the structure of freight cars?

Holds the train body on the truck assemblies. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of areas must be searched thoroughly during an emergency in passenger cars?

Bathrooms and service spaces. Signup and view all the answers

In passenger railcars, what is a common location where fires are likely to occur?

Trash cans. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of the 74-volt nickel-cadmium batteries in passenger cars?

They automatically activate emergency lighting when normal power is lost. Signup and view all the answers

What feature is specifically designed to assist with emergency access in MARC III cars?

External sledgehammers for breaking windows. Signup and view all the answers

How are the emergency lights powered in a passenger train car?

By 74-volt nickel-cadmium rail car batteries. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Amtrak freight cars from typical passenger rail cars?

They do not have end doors and have limited access to cargo. Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature identifies baggage combination cars on Amtrak trains?

The inclusion of dormitories for Amtrak personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What defines the 'roadway' in the context of railroads?

The section of property between tunnel walls, fence lines, and bridges used for train movement Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is specifically designed for cutting through structural supports of train cars?

Circular rescue saw. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential drawback of the emergency lighting system in passenger cars?

It can be quickly disabled in a derailment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of mileposts along railroads?

To indicate distances from specific starting points along the rail line Signup and view all the answers

Which entity is responsible for stopping trains if an incident occurs involving an Amtrak train on CSX tracks?

CSX railroad Signup and view all the answers

How do seats in Amtrak cars contribute to emergency evacuation?

They can be rotated and removed to allow for better access to emergency exits. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for fire and rescue personnel to meet with railroad representatives before an incident?

To understand the ownership and operation of adjacent tracks in their response area Signup and view all the answers

In the context of train operations, what explains why different trains can operate on the same track?

Each railroad entity independently controls its operations on the track Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding train direction and operations?

Trains can operate in any direction at any time Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique aspect of the WMATA's subway system's location compared to other railroads?

It runs parallel to high-traffic CSX railroad tracks Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly reflects the interaction among different railroad operators in case of an emergency?

All adjacent railroad operators need to be informed to ensure train halting Signup and view all the answers

What must be done after the WSAD is placed on its side with the strobe light up?

Chock the wheel in the front and rear Signup and view all the answers

What safety feature helps to prevent jackknifing and rollover in the new 7000-Series railcars?

Crash Energy Management System (CEMS) Signup and view all the answers

What color paddle should be placed on the top of the 3rd rail?

Red Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended tool for maintaining the running rails in good condition?

Wire brush Signup and view all the answers

What action is automatically triggered when the operator keys down in the 7000 Series?

The handbrake sets automatically Signup and view all the answers

What procedure must be followed before entering the roadway?

Obtain permission Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum total number of 7000 Series railcars that Metro could purchase?

748 Signup and view all the answers

What occurs when both indicator lights of the WSAD are illuminated?

The device is armed Signup and view all the answers

What are the three main types of doors found on most passenger rail cars?

Outside vestibule end doors, inside end doors, and exterior entrance side doors Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique feature of the outside end doors of passenger rail cars?

They are manually operated and usually secured in the open position when cars are joined. Signup and view all the answers

What role do the rubber diaphragms play when two passenger cars are connected?

They prevent air leaks and isolate the vestibules from the outside. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to understand how a train door operates during forcible entry?

To avoid causing further damage to the door mechanism. Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens to the outside end doors when passenger cars are joined together?

They are secured in an open position. Signup and view all the answers

What purpose do the latch handles on the outside end doors serve?

To assist in the manual operation of the doors. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of rail cars, what do the drop plates and rubber diaphragms accomplish?

They facilitate the connection while allowing movement between cars. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding passenger rail car vestibules?

They provide a transition area for passengers between cars. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Amtrak Amfleet I Cars

Amfleet I have no manual release levers on exterior doors
Amfleet I car doors can be unlocked and opened from the inside with a standard key or a "T" handle
If the door is not powered, it will not open even if manually pushed

Amfleet II Cars

Amfleet II cars have manually operated sliding exterior doors with handles on both sides
The outside lock can be opened with a standard Amtrak coach key
There are no manual emergency releases on the outside

MARC “cab” Cars

The first car of a train, in push mode, has a toggle switch that controls power to the locomotive

Train Power Systems

Passenger trains receive power from a locomotive through HEP (Head End Power) cables
Passenger trains can receive ground power through cables connected to circuit breakers
Only one locomotive supplies HEP to the whole train and it must be shut down to de-energize the train
Never attempt to disconnect HEP cables, an electric arc will be created causing injury.
Do NOT attempt to remove ground power by pulling apart cables, only railroad personnel should perform this function.

Compressed Air Systems

Locomotives have huge compressors that deliver compressed air through piping
On passenger trains, there are air brake lines pressurized to 110 psi, and main reservoir lines pressurized to 140 psi
The locomotive supplies both air systems
The brake line controls the brakes
The main reservoir operates other systems such as the doors
As with HEP cables, air brake lines are dangerous and are to be connected or disconnected ONLY by railroad personnel.

MARC Single Level Passenger Rail Cars (Similar to VRE II Cars)

Most MARC II cars have luggage racks located above the heads of the passengers
MARC II cars carry approximately 120 commuters
The rescue equipment includes a portable fire extinguisher, first aid kit and a tool kit

MARC II Car Doors

MARC II cars have electrically operated sliding exterior side doors that open in a pocket
The doors have grab handles on both sides and a lock on the outside
In addition to the door handles, there is a manual latch located at the top of the door that can be engaged or released manually from the inside
The weather stripping is automatically inflated and can be deflated by puncturing the rubber with a knife or sharp tool.

MARC II Car Doors from the Outside

MARC II car doors have handles on both sides of the doors
The outside locks are not usually locked
If the door is locked, it can be unlocked with the standard Amtrak coach key
There are no manual emergency releases on the outside

Baggage Combination Cars

Some Amtrak passenger cars have been converted to baggage cars
These cars will have end doors but not emergency windows
They will not be occupied when the train is in motion.

Freight Trains

Most freight trains are operated with a minimum of a conductor and an engineer
The conductor is in charge of both the train and railroad personnel
There may also be a brakeman or other railroad personnel on board
Conductors and engineers on freight trains do not wear uniforms
When the train is in motion, all railroad personnel will usually be located in the locomotive.

Metro Rail Incidents

During any Metrorail incident, the 3rd rail power must be removed and the 3rd rail must be de-energized
The WSAD (Warning Strobe And Device) must be in place, functioning correctly, and within its calibration dates.

WSAD Procedures:

The WSAD should be checked daily to ensure its indicator lights illuminate when the test buttons are activated
The WSAD should be placed on its side between the running and third rails
The WSAD should be placed in the "ARMED" position with both indicator lights lit
The WSAD should be placed in a position that allows an ETEC to pass over it
You must have permission before entering the roadway.

7000 Series Metro Rail Cars

The railcars feature an all stainless-steel body and are designed and built with new Crash Energy Management System technology (CEMS)
This system is designed so energy from an impact is absorbed and dispersed by the structure of the railcar
CEMS also helps with prevention of jackknifing and rollover of the railcars.

Train Cars

Parallel HEP cables run from the locomotive, under the cars, for the entire length of the train.
Connections between passenger train cars are referred to as jumpers, pigtails, or HEP cables.
All passenger locomotives (diesel-electric and electric) can provide HEP.
When multiple locomotives are in use, the locomotive closest to the cars will usually provide HEP.
HEP source shut-offs are located in the locomotive cab and at the power plant.
Individual cars can isolate HEP from the rest of the train by throwing breakers in the electrical control cabinet of each passenger car.
Isolating the car by way of the circuit breaker does NOT de-energize HEP cables under the car.
Emergency response personnel can also shut down HEP from diesel-electric locomotives by using the emergency shut-offs on the side of the locomotives.
Totally electric locomotives can be shut down either by lowering and latching pantographs or by de-energizing and grounding the catenary system.

Passenger Car Details

Passenger cars may be designed for passenger coach use only, or for a combination of other functions, such as, passenger coach and snack bar, passenger coach and lounge, etc.
Some trailer cars may have sleeper berths exclusively, diner use exclusively, or a combination of these uses in place of or in concert with coach seating.
Passenger car interiors are mostly made of fire-resistant material.
Wiring and electrical equipment is found in and underneath the car.
All rail cars, both passenger and freight, do not have a front or rear end. They have an “A” or “B” end based on where the hand brake is located.
The end of the car with the hand brake is designated the “B” end; the other end of the car is the “A” end.
A train car sits on two truck assemblies or trucks. Each truck has two sets of wheels (axles) and can weigh more than ten tons.

Emergency Window Removal

All Amtrak, VRE, and MARC emergency windows can be opened from the inside using a procedure found on a decal located near the window.
Firefighters on the outside of the rail car can direct passengers to remove the emergency windows on their own accord.
Amtrak passenger car windows are made of Lexan polycarbonate materials. Both emergency and non-emergency windows can be opened from the outside using instructions on a decal located at the bottom of the window.
MARC recommends that their windows (safety glass), both emergency and non- emergency windows, be opened from the outside by breaking them.
VRE recommends simple removal by pulling exterior gaskets.
Most MARC passenger train car windows are glass and have a totally different procedure in removal.
Using the “zip-strip” removal method can also easily open many of the MARC windows.

Last Resort Window Removal

In rare circumstances where removal of windows by prescribed means is precluded, a carbide-tipped chain saw can be used to cut Lexan polycarbonate windows.
Another last choice option is to freeze the Lexan polycarbonate pane with several large CO2 fire extinguishers and then shatter the window with a Halligan bar.
Do NOT use any type of circular saw. The Lexan polycarbonate will melt and foul the blade before it can cut very far.
Any tool swung at the Lexan polycarbonate windows will rebound dangerously and this method is not to be used.

Cutting Into the Car Body

If access cannot be obtained through doors or windows, cut the metal body between structural supports but remember that the outer skin is ¾’’ stainless steel.
Avoid cutting car floors because of their heavier construction and the presence of 480-volt HEP lines, high-pressure air lines, and other utilities.
Hurst and other standard vehicle-extrication tools will not work on train car structural supports.
Reciprocating saws and cutting torches are the best tools to cut structural supports.
Be aware that electrical wiring and high-pressure air lines are located throughout the body of the car.

WMATA Rail System

WMATA operates its own rail subway system alongside CSX railroad tracks known as the "common corridor".
Responders must notify all adjacent railroad operators to stop trains in case of incidents.

Rail Safety & Terminology

"Roadway" refers to the area between tunnel walls, fence lines, and bridges used for rail transport, extending approximately 50 feet outward from the center of the outermost tracks.
Railroads may operate on tracks owned by another railroad, but the operating railroad maintains control.
Mileposts are one-mile markers along rail lines used to determine location.
Maps produced by the railroad industry showcase milepost measurements.

Passenger Car Components

Passenger cars have "A" and "B" ends, with the "B" end designated by its handbrake location.
Each car has two trucks (wheel assemblies) weighing over ten tons.
Center pin on the car body connects to the truck’s center plate.
Passenger cars have supplementary restraint devices to keep the truck assemblies linked to the car body.

Passenger Car Door Types

Passenger rail cars typically have three door types: outside vestibule end doors (exterior collision-post doors or body-end doors), inside end doors (interior vestibule doors), and exterior entrance side doors (side doors).
End doors facilitate passage between cars, while side doors are for passenger entry and exit.
Vestibules with rubber diaphragms and drop plates connect cars, creating a single area between them.

Emergency Equipment on Passenger Cars

Passenger cars have one or two dry chemical extinguishers, a first-aid kit, a sledgehammer, a pry bar, and other tools.
74-volt nickel-cadmium batteries provide emergency lighting and door power.
Seats in Amtrak cars can be rotated to improve access to emergency windows.

Freight Cars on Amtrak Passenger Trains

Amtrak passenger trains can include boxcars for mail, baggage, and material handling, similar to those used on freight trains.
Amtrak freight cars typically do not have end doors, limiting access to side cargo doors.

WMATA 7000 Series Railcars

The 7000 Series railcars are manufactured by Kawasaki Rail Car, Inc., and feature an all-stainless-steel body.
The Crash Energy Management System (CEMS) absorbs and distributes impact energy, preventing jackknifing and rollover.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the Amtrak Amfleet I and II cars, along with MARC cab cars and their operational features. Learn about how power is supplied to passenger trains and the safety precautions that should be taken. This quiz is designed for train enthusiasts and those studying transportation systems.