Engine Guard Car
What is an Engine Guard Car?
An engine guard car is a type of railroad car that is used to protect the locomotive and other cars in a train from damage. It is typically placed at the front of the train, and it is designed to absorb the impact of a collision and to prevent the locomotive from derailing.
Engine guard cars are typically made of steel or aluminum, and they are equipped with a variety of features to protect the locomotive and crew. These features include:
- A heavy-duty frame to absorb the impact of a collision
- A reinforced front end to prevent the locomotive from derailing
- Side skirts to protect the locomotive from side impacts
- A roof hatch to provide access to the top of the locomotive
Why are Engine Guard Cars Used?
Engine guard cars are used to protect the locomotive and crew from damage in a variety of situations, including:
- Collisions with other trains
- Collisions with objects on the tracks
- Derailments
- Fires
How are Engine Guard Cars Tested?
Engine guard cars are tested to ensure that they meet the requirements of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). These tests include:
- Impact tests to simulate a collision with another train
- Derailment tests to simulate a derailment
- Fire tests to simulate a fire on the locomotive
Conclusion
Engine guard cars are an important part of railroad safety. They protect the locomotive and crew from damage in a variety of situations, and they help to keep trains running safely.
