EN 13749 is a European standard specifying functional, safety, and performance requirements for railway braking systems.

Does EN 13749 apply to both freight and passenger trains?

Yes, it applies to both freight and passenger rolling stock to ensure consistent braking performance and interoperability.

How does EN 13749 relate to TSI Rolling Stock?

EN 13749 provides detailed brake system requirements that support and complement TSI Rolling Stock safety and interoperability standards.

Who should follow EN 13749?

Rolling stock manufacturers, railway operators, certification bodies, and maintenance teams follow EN 13749 for safe and interoperable braking systems.

Stopping Power in Focus: EN 13749 for Railway Braking Systems Explained

EN 13749 specifies functional and safety requirements for brake systems on European railway vehicles, ensuring interoperability and safe train operation.

October 9, 2023 6:16 pm

What Is EN 13749?

EN 13749 is a European standard that defines functional, safety, and performance requirements for braking systems on railway vehicles.
It applies to both freight and passenger rolling stock, ensuring reliable stopping capability and interoperability across European rail networks.

Importance of EN 13749 in Railway Operations

Braking systems are critical for train safety, stability, and operational efficiency. EN 13749 ensures that braking performance is consistent, predictable, and compliant with European interoperability rules.

Specifies brake force requirements and distribution
Defines performance limits under normal and degraded conditions
Supports compatibility between different rolling stock
Ensures safe stopping distances under various operational scenarios

Scope and Technical Coverage

The standard covers mechanical, pneumatic, and electropneumatic braking systems, including their design, testing, and maintenance requirements.

Brake system types and functional requirements
Brake force distribution and calculation methods
Dynamic and static performance testing
Integration with control-command and safety systems
Maintenance and inspection procedures

Key Technical Parameters

Parameter	Description	Operational Impact
Brake Force	Required braking effort per axle or wagon	Ensures safe and efficient stopping distances
Brake Distribution	Allocation of braking force across axles and vehicles	Maintains train stability and reduces wheel slip
Reaction Time	Time between brake command and actual application	Affects emergency stopping capability
System Reliability	Defined through SIL and redundancy requirements	Prevents operational failures and accidents

Relationship with Other Standards

EN 13749 complements TSI Rolling Stock, EN 15566 for couplers, and UIC braking standards. It ensures that braking performance is compatible across different vehicle types and rail networks.

Aligns with TSI Rolling Stock safety requirements
Integrates with EN 15566 and UIC brake standards
Supports interoperability of freight and passenger trains

Who Uses EN 13749?

The standard is applied by rolling stock manufacturers, railway operators, infrastructure managers, and certification authorities to ensure braking safety and interoperability.