Name a common fault detection method in railway electrical systems.

Continuity testing is widely used in railway electrical systems as a fundamental method for fault detection. This method involves checking if electrical circuits are complete and whether current can flow through them without interruption. It is particularly important in railway systems where connections and pathways must remain intact for safe operations.

When performing continuity testing, technicians use a multimeter or similar device to verify that there are no breaks or faults in the wiring. This can identify issues such as damaged cables, corroded connections, or disconnections that could lead to failures in electrical systems. Since railways rely on intricate electrical systems for signaling and train operations, ensuring continuity is essential for safety and reliability.

In contrast, while voltage testing, current testing, and resistance testing are also important methods to assess different aspects of electrical systems, they serve unique purposes such as measuring the voltage levels, evaluating current flow, or determining the resistance in a circuit. These methods may complement continuity testing but do not specifically address the need to confirm whether a complete path exists for electrical current, making continuity testing particularly vital in fault detection.