What would a black and white goodbye at a train station be without thick clouds of smoke and steam? Steam locomotives not only spearheaded the first industrial revolution, they have attained a truly iconic place in our culture. Of course, they became obsolete long ago, replaced first by diesel models, then by electric models, and finally by high-speed maglev trains. But some of the latest models will soon leave a trail of steam again. French rail maker Alstom and British company Eversholt Rail have partnered to develop a new generation of hydrogen-powered locomotives.of technology project intends to adapt the old diesel model rather than building it from scratch. Fittingly, this would happen in the cradle of a steam locomotive. Richard Trevithick He built his first prototype in 1804.
The consortium will retrofit hydrogen systems to existing Class 321 trains in service in the UK so that they can operate as Hydrogen Multi-Units (HMU) under the codename Breeze.this goal innovative project It is the realization of clean and environmentally friendly trains that can run without emitting harmful carbon dioxide even on routes where the benefits of electrification cannot be expected.another Advantages of these conforming engines Not only does it fit older locomotives, but hydrogen tanks are installed at the beginning and end of the train, providing more space for passengers.by using this innovative technologyThe new engine runs quietly at speeds up to 90 miles per hour, giving it a range of 620 miles. The contract includes adaptations for 100 trains, which are expected to be in service by early 2021.
Currently, less than half of UK rail lines are electrified, so diesel engines must be used.Among the government’s decarbonization goals, this technology It should be phased out by 2040.
The UK isn’t the only country working on this new system, though. In September 2018, the first of his Coradia iLint hydrogen trains began operating in Germany, transporting passengers daily in a clean and sustainable manner.
The fastest steam locomotive in history
When we think of steam locomotives, we tend to think of them as locomotives with a long and distinguished history that breathe thick smoke as they move slowly.th A century brought by conventional steam engines diesel technology Train running for money.
On July 3, 1938, the steam locomotive was given the following nickname: MallardWith double funnels and double killchap blast tubes, this 165 propelled at breathtaking speed. Driver Joseph Duddington flew at 196 mph that day, claiming the class world speed record that has not been broken since.
After being retired in 1963, the old Mallard is now in York’s National Railway Museum with a small commemorative plaque documenting its excellence.
sauce: engineering.com
