A yaw damper is a transverse mounted

shock absorber A shock absorber or damper is a mechanical or hydraulic device designed to absorb and damp shock impulses. It does this by converting the kinetic energy of the shock into another form of energy (typically heat) which is then dissipated. Most sh ...

used to prevent railcars and

locomotives A locomotive or engine is a rail transport vehicle that provides the motive power for a train. If a locomotive is capable of carrying a payload, it is usually rather referred to as a multiple unit, motor coach, railcar or power car; the ...

from swaying excessively from side to side. Yaw dampers prevent locomotives and passenger railcars from striking station platforms as they roll past them and reduce the gap that must be left between the railroad vehicle and the platform, improving safety.Bigger brackets brought out for Amtrak’s Acela Express, Railway Age, January 29, 2003
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References

External links

Railroad Yaw Damper Field Manual
Rail technologies {{Rail-transport-stub