steam loco Class A4
The steam locomotive class A4 - the prototype:
The London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) A4 steam locomotive is one of the most recognizable and iconic steam locomotives ever built. Developed by legendary engineer Sir Nigel Gresley in the 1930s, the A4 was known for setting speed records and being a symbol of the prowess of the British railway industry. Gresley received inspiration for the streamlined design, among other things, from the "Flying Hamburger" diesel multiple units of the Deutsche Reichsbahn.
The A4 series locomotives were specially developed for use in high-speed traffic and represented a remarkable technical achievement. They featured streamlined cowling, which reduced drag and maximized the locomotive's performance. Six large driving wheels ensured a high and steady speed on the tracks, additional axles increased stability. The A4 featured a powerful steam boiler that produced enough steam to reach high speeds. Various tenders with and without a corridor were used behind the locomotive.
The A4 steam locomotives were mainly used for long-distance services, pulling trains such as the "Flying Scotsman" and the "Silver Jubilee" on the routes from London towards central England and especially Scotland. Known for their comfort and reliability, they were highly appreciated by passengers. The A4 locomotives embodied the pride and elegance of British railway heritage.
Unfortunately, the introduction of diesel locomotives and later electric locomotives marked the end of the steam locomotive era. In the 1960s, the A4 locomotives were gradually phased out and replaced by more modern locomotives. Nevertheless, the A4 steam locomotive remains a remarkable example of technical brilliance and efficiency.
The fastest steam locomotive in the world
One of the most famous A4 locomotives was the "Mallard". On July 3, 1938, the Mallard broke the steam locomotive speed record by reaching a top speed of 202.8 km/h (126 mph). This record still stands today and shows the exceptional performance of the A4.
Six A4 steam locomotives remain today, including the Mallard, which has been moved to the National Railway Museum in York, England. It serves as a memorial to the golden age of steam locomotives and a reminder of the pioneering work of Sir Nigel Gresley and his team. At selected events, most recently the Great Gathering of all surviving A4s in York in 2013, some of the existing locomotives are still being put into operation.
The LNER A4 steam locomotive will always have a special place in the history of the railways. Her elegance, speed and technical sophistication have made her a legendary symbol of British railways.