A storm brake is a dedicated safety device used to secure rail-mounted equipment against wind loads when parked or during severe weather. It is most common on port cranes (STS, RTG/RMG), rail-mounted gantry cranes, stacker reclaimers, and other large machines that can move on rails.
Unlike service or hoist brakes, storm brakes are designed to resist horizontal forces and prevent unintended travel or derailment. Designs include rail clamps, rail brakes, wheel brakes, and wedge-type storm brakes. Many are fail-safe: they engage when power is lost, ensuring the machine remains secured during blackouts that often accompany storms.
Storm brakes are required when wind loads exceed what normal travel brakes can hold, or when regulations/port operating procedures mandate dedicated storm securing systems. Selection depends on rail type, wheel arrangement, required holding force, corrosion exposure (salt spray), and maintenance practices. For high-wind regions, pairing storm brakes with anemometers and interlocks provides an additional layer of operational safety.
