COMPENSATING BEAM. The name given to a lever which connects mechanical actions in such a manner as to provide an equalizing effect, or else causes synchronization of movements.
The principal example is that extensively applied to the axle-box springs of locomotives, particularly in countries where the roads are rather uneven. Injurious jerks and shocks are transmitted by the constantly varying loads on the respective axles. But if a lever is pivoted at the centre of its length, and the ends attached to the ends of the hangers of two springs, the result will be an equaliza tion of the loads. These beams are variously fitted, in some loco motives between the driving-wheel springs, in others also between a rear driving-wheel set and those of a trailing axle, while com pensation between the springs of leading driving-wheels and those of a pony truck is often made. The pivoting of the beam may be by holes and pins through the fulcrum blocks, or else the beam has half-circles cut out for the pivot or, rather, roller pins. The former arrangement is depicted in the drawing from an American locomotive. Some designs of central buffers embody a compen sating beam to obviate uneven working.