Opinion & Answer Part VII: Push-Pull Locomotives
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| Thomas the Tank Engine pulling Express Coaches from Thomas & Friend Show |
Push–pull is a configuration for locomotive-hauled trains. It allows the train to be driven from either end of the train whether the locomotive is at each end or just at one end with a controlled cab at the other end of the train.
A locomotive at one end of the train is connected via some form of remote control, such as multiple-unit train control, to a vehicle equipped with a control cab at the other end of the train. This second vehicle may be another locomotive, or an a powered control car.
1 Locomotive & Cab W/Controls
(Historical)
In this case of having 1 locomotive at either end of the train, there is a cab with basic control located inside that the engineer can drive the train with the fireman being left with the locomotive so the adjusted controls can be used that are not available in the cab.
(Modern)
In modern time, the control system for the modern trains have gone sophisticated. Modern train control systems use sophisticated electronics to allow full remote control of locomotives. Nevertheless, push–pull operation still requires considerable design care to ensure that control system failure does not endanger passengers and also to ensure that in the event of a derailment, the pushing locomotive does not push a derailed train into an obstacle, worsening the accident.
Further Explanation can be found here by clicking this link => Push-pull train Wikipedia page
(Two locomotives,locomotives in middle & Distributed power can be found the by clicking the link above for those explanations)
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Author Conductor Wolf's Thoughts
With this style of locomotive(s), I find these pretty interesting. The reason is that the way these engines operated with these trains is with two locomotives,one locomotive and a cab, disturbing power or in the middle while pulling/pushing their trains. These Trains fall under the unique category in my book because these trains could push or pull their train. In real life, I've actually ridden in a push-pull style engine with the diesel being at one end and a driving cab at the other to pull the train back the other direction.
If you're a Thomas & Friend Fan...
Check out this YouTube Video that is made by The Unlucky Tug channel. He takes a look at how Thomas the tank is a Push-Pull fictional train from Thomas & Friends. The link to the Channel is below along with the video.
Video Title: Did you know THIS about Thomas? — Thomas Debunked
- Video Link: https://youtu.be/rjRnq_IJFZI
- Channel Link: The Unlucky Tug YouTube Channel
