Locomotives

While trains and locomotives are often confused due to the close association between the two, there is an important difference between trains and locomotives.

A train is a connected series of rail cars that run on tracks, typically made up of passenger or cargo carriages. A train can have more than one locomotive for pulling the carriages.

By contrast, a locomotive refers to one or multiple engines for powering the wheels through friction (or compressed air), enabling the train to move.

The three most common types of locomotives used today are categorised as diesel, electric, or diesel-electric hybrid.

Diesel locomotives use compressed air as the energy source to drive pistons as they move along the track. These pistons are connected to the locomotive's main wheels, which provide the pulling power for the train. The diesel engine then compresses this air into a small space before igniting it with fuel and letting it expand. These engines are typically used in short-distance pulls where electric engines cannot be utilised, such as on underground lines.

In an electric locomotive, electricity from a source such as an overhead power line or a battery is the energy source. Large electric generators are used to provide high-voltage electrical currents that power traction motors which pull the train along. Electric engines can be used for pulling trains over short and long distances.

A hybrid locomotive is a combination of diesel and electric engines.These trains use an internal combustion engine as well as electric motors. This allows for greater power output both from the motor and the engine while also using energy more efficiently through the hybrid engine.

The average lifespan of a locomotive sits between 30 and 40 years. However, preventative maintenance and replacement of parts will need to be carried out regularly, to ensure the locomotive is as efficient as possible.