Hobbies And Interests
Locomotives
Freight locomotives are typically powered by large deisel-electric engines that enable them to haul hundreds of tons of weight. A typical freight train uses several locomotives that work in tandem to pull upwards of 100 cars designed to carry up to a 125 tons each. In addition to their brute hauling capacity freight locomotives are complex communication and control centers designed to manage the integrated systems of multiple locomotives and dozens of freight cars.
Freight Cars
Freight cars are designed to carry loads ranging from 70 to 125 tons, depending on its design. These vehicles consist of a carbody, truck and safety equipment. The carbody of a freight car is simply the part of the freight car that holds freight. Carbodies come in several configurations and are held in place on top of the truck by their own weight. The undercarriage of a freight car is known as the truck. It consists of the wheels, axles, center sill. The center sill connects the axles and serves as the support for the car.
Lights
The federal government requires that all freight locomotives carry headlights. These headlights are usually mounted either on the top or front of the locomotive in varied configurations. Some locomotives utilize as many as two lights while others use only one. One style of locomotive headlight utilizes a small motor to spin the headlights causing them oscillate back forth to provide a better view of the upcoming track.
Horns
Federal regulations also require a horn on all freight locomotives. The horns used on these locomotives are designed to warn motorists at railroad crossing that a train is approaching. Train horns are required to produce between 96 dB and 110 dB of noise. These horns are frequently mounted on the roof or front of the locomotive depending on its design.