Class 12 Atlantic Locomotives
History and Development
In 1939, the Belgian State Railways commissioned Cockerill to construct six streamlined Atlantic locomotives to accelerate express services. The Class 12 locomotives were designed to handle both freight and passenger operations on routes between Antwerp, Gent, and Liège.
Design and Features
The Class 12 Atlantic locomotives incorporated several advanced features for the time, including a streamlined design that reduced air resistance. They were equipped with three cylinders and two coupled axles, providing a balance of speed and power. The locomotives featured a boiler pressure of 225 psi and could reach speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph).
Service and Retirement
The Class 12 locomotives entered service in 1940 and quickly proved their worth. They were reliable and efficient, and their streamlined design gave them a distinctive and modern appearance. However, with the rise of diesel and electric locomotives, the Class 12 gradually fell out of use.
The last Class 12 locomotive was retired in 1969. Today, only one locomotive, No. 12.005, remains preserved at the Train World museum in Brussels.
Conclusion
The Class 12 Atlantic locomotives were a significant development in Belgian steam locomotive technology. Their streamlined design, speed, and reliability made them an important part of express rail services for several decades. While they have long since been retired, the Class 12 locomotives remain a testament to the innovation and engineering achievements of the early 20th century.
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