What is the maximum allowable piston travel for cars equipped with 8 ½ - 10 inch diameter brake cylinders?

The maximum allowable piston travel for cars equipped with 8 ½ - 10 inch diameter brake cylinders is indeed 6 to 9 inches. This range is determined based on the engineering specifications and design of the brake systems used in railcars, ensuring optimal braking performance while maintaining safety.

Brake cylinders are crucial components that utilize hydraulic pressure to move pistons, which in turn apply force to the brake shoes against the wheels. The specified travel distance is essential for generating the required braking force efficiently. If the piston travel exceeds the specified range, it could indicate a malfunction or potential safety hazard, impacting the effectiveness of the braking system.

In this context, other ranges of piston travel would either be insufficient or excessive. For instance, a travel of 4 to 5 inches may not provide enough force for effective braking, particularly in emergency situations. On the other hand, 10 to 12 inches or 2 to 3 inches would not align with standard operational procedures as they would either be outside of the efficient working range or signify issues with brake application and release mechanisms. Therefore, maintaining the correct piston travel within the 6 to 9 inches range is critical for safe and effective braking operation in railway systems.