Why must train crew be cautious when operating AC and DC locomotives together?

Train crew must be cautious when operating AC and DC locomotives together primarily because DC locomotives may power up faster than AC locomotives. This difference in response time can create significant operational challenges, particularly during starting and acceleration. If train crew members are not aware of this characteristic, they could inadvertently create a situation where the train experiences uneven acceleration, potentially leading to safety hazards.

The rapid power-up of DC locomotives means that if they are coupled with AC locomotives, the train’s dynamics could be affected, causing issues such as wheel slip or even loss of control if proper caution is not taken. Awareness of these operational characteristics allows train crew to better coordinate the operation of different types of locomotives, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the train services.

This knowledge is crucial in maintaining smooth operations, particularly when handling mixed types of locomotives in a single train formation.