INDIAN RAILWAYS – F – 1 SELECTOR VALVE
The F – 1 selector valve performs the function of arranging the brake equipment on the locomotive to lead or trail other types of brake equipment’s. It performs the function of protecting trailing locomotive brake equipment by automatically resetting the brake control to lead position in the event of a separation between locomotive unit. To selector valve consists of three sections. The protection in pipe is controlled by pipe No. 15 the transfer section are controlled by pressure in pipe no’s 53 and 63. Operation of the selection valve is under control of the MU – 2B valve located in the locomotive cabin.
LEAD POSITION
When the IRAB – 1 equipped locomotive is the lead unit, air pressure to port 53 and 63 of the selector valve is vented and connected. Control value pressure flows form port 4 to 16 and from there through a double check valve to the C-2 relay valve controlling brake cylinder build up pressure from the brake cylinder line flows from 30 to 14, and hence, to the brake cylinder equalizing pipe of the lead locomotive. The brake cylinder equalizing pipe of the lead locomotive. The brake cylinder equalizing pipe is used to control brakes on trailing units.