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Quantum System Sounds
Steam Chuff:
The familiar steam chuff comes from steam exhausted from
the steam chest through the smoke stack, which creates a powerful draft
to feed the fire. Quantum Chuffing produces four distinct Chuff sounds per
drive wheel set, a rhythm recognized by all steam fans.
Articulated Chuff:
Articulated or Duplex steam locomotives have two sets
of steam Chuff sounds that will go gradually in and out of synchrony. Most
articulated engines had less weight over the front engine, which resulted in
more slippage, causing the two engines to run at slightly different speeds.
Blower or Steam Engine Hiss:
On a moving engine, the steam from the
steam chest venting through the smoke-stack draws air through the fire
box, keeping the fire healthy. When the engine is sitting still, blowers are
often turned on to vent steam through the smoke stack to maintain the
draft. Blowers were often turned off soon after the engine started out. The
steam Blower sound on steam engines will turn on gradually followed by a
continual steam hiss.
Air Pumps:
When an engine is sitting still, and air is used, the pumps come
on at a steady beat to replace the air lost from pneumatically operated
appliances. Once the pressure is up, the pumps only operate occasionally
to maintain the pressure. Large steam engines may have more than one
pump operating independently.
Appliance Air Release:
Compressed air is used on engines for operating
various appliances. You will hear both a Short Air Let-off or Long Air Let-off
at various times.
Air Brakes:
When prototype train brakes are applied, air is released from
the brake lines to reduce the pressure. The more the pressure is reduced,
the greater the braking. You will hear a continual air release sound from the
steam locomotive model as braking is continually increased. The longer
the air is released, the quicker the steam locomotive model will slow down.
Once all the pressure is released, the engine will continue at maximum
braking which can still require a long stopping distance depending on your
Load settings.
DCC
and QARC
45
Only.
Brakes Squeal:
You can hear the brakes squeal on prototype locomotives
when the engine is moving slowly and can become particularly loud when
the wheels are just about to stop turning. Listen at slow speeds for automatic
