Abstract: A thermal energy storage material comprising at least one hydrated inorganic salt having a transition temperature to the anhydrous or a less hydrated form in the range 10.degree. to 100.degree. C. (for example, sodium sulphate decahydrate), the salt being dispersed and suspended in a water-insoluble hydrogel formed from a water-soluble synthetic polymer having pendant carboxylic or sulphonic acid groups cross-linked with cations of a polyvalent metal (for example, aluminium or magnesium).

Abstract: A modulating valve for railroad car brake cylinders to adapt them for operation with composition brake shoes, in the form of an assembly comprising a bracket plate arranged for connection in the brake cylinder pipe, at a convenient location between the brake cylinder and the AB control valve, in place of a portion of the brake cylinder pipe removed for that purpose, and a modulating valve mounted on the bracket plate and in communication with the brake cylinder pipe and brake cylinder to limit the fluid pressures supplied to the brake cylinder so that composition brake shoes will deliver the proper brake applying force to the truck wheels without interferring with proper operation of existing brake control equipment.

Abstract: A modulating valve for railroad car brake cylinders to adapt them for operation with composition brake shoes, in the form of an assembly comprising a bracket plate shaped for mounting between the brake cylinder pipe flange type fitting that connects the brake cylinder pipe to the brake cylinder and the cylinder head, and that is arranged for a three point securement to the cylinder head, and a modulating valve mounted on the bracket plate and in communication with the brake cylinder pipe and brake cylinder to limit the fluid pressures supplied to the brake cylinder so that composition brake shoes will deliver the proper brake applying force to the truck wheels without interferring with proper operation of existing brake control equipment.