A Yard Engine Shunts a Freight Car

A yard engine is a type of locomotive that is used to move freight cars around a railroad yard. Yard engines are typically smaller and less powerful than road engines, which are used to haul trains over long distances. However, yard engines are essential for the efficient operation of a railroad yard, as they allow for the quick and easy movement of freight cars between different tracks and loading areas.

How a Yard Engine Shunts a Freight Car

To shunt a freight car, a yard engine will first couple to the car. The engineer will then use the engine’s controls to move the car to the desired location. The engineer will typically use a combination of forward and reverse movements to shunt the car, as this allows for precise control over the car’s movement. Once the car is in the desired location, the engineer will uncouple the engine from the car.

The Importance of Yard Engines

Yard engines are essential for the efficient operation of a railroad yard. They allow for the quick and easy movement of freight cars between different tracks and loading areas. This helps to keep the yard organized and running smoothly. Without yard engines, it would be much more difficult to move freight cars around a yard, which would lead to delays and inefficiencies.

Types of Yard Engines

There are several different types of yard engines, each with its own unique set of features. The most common type of yard engine is the switcher. Switchers are small, low-powered locomotives that are designed for maneuvering freight cars around a yard. Other types of yard engines include hump engines, which are used to push freight cars over a hump in a yard, and transfer engines, which are used to move freight cars between different yards.

Conclusion

Yard engines are an essential part of the railroad industry. They help to keep railroad yards organized and running smoothly. Without yard engines, it would be much more difficult to move freight cars around a yard, which would lead to delays and inefficiencies.

Additional Information

• The average yard engine weighs between 100 and 200 tons.
• Yard engines are typically powered by diesel engines.
• Yard engines can move freight cars at speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
• Yard engines are operated by a single engineer.
• Yard engines are essential for the efficient operation of a railroad yard.