Final Answer:
The device used in emergencies by train operators to insulate contact shoes from the third rail is called a "third rail shoe insulator."
Step-by-step explanation:
In the electrified railway systems, trains draw power from a third rail, which is an additional rail placed alongside the regular tracks. The contact shoes of the train connect to this third rail to receive electrical power. In emergencies, when it is necessary to isolate the contact shoes from the third rail quickly, a device known as a "third rail shoe insulator" is employed. This insulator is designed to create a temporary break in the electrical connection between the train's contact shoes and the third rail.
The third rail shoe insulator is a crucial safety feature, especially in situations where there may be a need to evacuate passengers or perform maintenance on the tracks. By insulating the contact shoes from the third rail, the risk of electric shock or other electrical hazards is minimized. The device is typically designed to be easily deployable and can be manually activated by train operators or emergency personnel. It provides a swift and effective means of ensuring the safety of both passengers and railway workers during emergency situations.
In summary, the third rail shoe insulator is a specialized device employed in electrified railway systems to quickly and temporarily interrupt the electrical connection between a train's contact shoes and the third rail, enhancing safety during emergency scenarios.