What are "two stage" and "BSI" brakes?

[Somewhatfoolish]

Having good fun with my new rail simulator, railworks. One of the notices in the 3d cab of the HST says "This power car is fitted with BSI brakes. The two stage brake is disconnected". What this mean?

[neilb62]

Originally HST had a "two stage brake fitted" IIRC at speeds over 100 mph a lower than normal air pressure was supplied to the power car brakes to help avoid snatching in the train.
After a while this was found to be unnecessary and the feature was removed. HST had a fantastic brake in my opinion, powerful and with loads of "feel". I remember the "the 2 stage brake has been removed" signs in the cab but don't remember the BSI sign, mind you its a good few years since I've driven one!

[Somewhatfoolish]

Cheers

Edited by Somewhatfoolish on Monday 22 March 17:31

[neilb62]

A vague memory suggest that BSI was the maker of the brake pads...

[jackregan]

BSI made couplers for pacers as well....

[Pigeon]

neilb62 said:

A vague memory suggest that BSI was the maker of the brake pads...

Yep. Braking Systems Inc. or something like that.

[matchmaker]

Pigeon said:

neilb62 said:

A vague memory suggest that BSI was the maker of the brake pads...

Yep. Braking Systems Inc. or something like that.

German I think - Bergische Stahl Industrie. Best known for automatic couplings as used on Sprinter class DMUs.