Fringian General Purpose Locomotive
| General Purpose Locomotive | |
|---|---|
| Tech Level | TL–4 |
| Mass | 6 Tons |
| Cost | {{{cost}}} |
| Mode | Wheels / Rails |
| Type | |
| Speed | 50 kph |
| Cargo | 2m³ |
| Crew | 2 |
| Passengers | (+1) |
| Armament | none |
Description / Specifications
A very basic steam-powered locomotive. It can tow a variety of loads, typically within Open Wagons.
Hull / Suspension
A generally cylindrical hull mounted on a chassis. Length: 11.3m (cabin length 2.8m), Width: 2.4m, Height: 4.1m. Unloaded Weight: 11300 kg.
- External Volume: approximately 84m³ (8 dTons).
- Note that the external volume measures the vehicles maximum dimensions and includes track clearance and the width of the transmission system (side-mounted external cylinders). The contained volume of the contoured hull is substantially lower.
The vehicle is fitted with large driving wheels set onto a series of axles and connected to the boiler by rods and pistons.
- The vehicle is designed to operate on rail networks. The gauge (the distance between the inner faces of the two rails) for railroad networks within the Distant Fringe is generally 1.5m (though some worlds use their own system) and most examples of the locomotive are built to match that standard.
Power / Transmission
A large high pressure boiler, generating steam by burning combustible fuel to heat stored water. The steam powers cylinders connected to the drive wheels. The vehicle carries supplies of water in side tanks and has a hopper at the rear containing solid fuel. The boiler is fitted with
Performance
- Cruise Speed 35 kph, Top Speed 50 kph.
- Range 500 km at cruise, 280 km at top speed.
The General Purpose Locomotive tows a train of Open Wagons or other similar loads. Locomotives and wagons have a manually operated coupling system consisting of hooks and chains. The linkage also includes pressure hoses that are connected to the towed wagons and operate their brakes.
- Maximum towing weight is approximately 34,000 kg (3x its own weight). Greater loads may be moved but this places stresses on the locomotive that may cause a catastrophic loss of control.
Passengers / Cargo
An enclosed cabin towards the rear of the hull contains two crew positions, though there is adequate room for an assistant or passenger. The driver's position is equipped with basic mechanical controls and gauges that provide information such as internal pressure and forward velocity. The second crewmember ensures that a steady supply of fuel is provided to the boiler.
Internal cargo storage: 2m³ (largely given over to tools and maintenance equipment – the tool boxes also double as crew seats). Maximum load: restricted by volume only.
Equipment
Headlights and running lights. Basic environment (the hull is weatherproof but is not sealed: the cabin rear is open). Locomotives may be fitted with animal fenders and spark arresters
History / Background
A large surface transport vehicle designed for large scale logistical operations. It is designed to tow cargo wagons and passenger carriages.
Although the vehicle is manufactured at relatively low tech levels and uses basic materials the design has been perfected over millennia and all of the engineering aspects are well-known and thoroughly understood. The locomotive is relatively efficient and reliable for its era. If a breakdown does occur it can generally be repaired with simple tools and brute force.
See also: Vehicles of the Distant Fringe
References & Contributors / Sources
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- Author & Contributor: Lord (Marquis) and Master Scout Emeritus Adie Alegoric Stewart of the IISS
- Author & Contributor: Lord (Marquis) and Master of Sophontology Maksim-Smelchak of the Ministry of Science