Identifying Different Types of Hoppers (and tank-cars)

UP_Challenger3985 Apr 3, 2017

  1. UP_Challenger3985

    UP_Challenger3985 TrainBoard Member

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    I am currently working on building my rolling stock inventory in preparation for operations on my new Mill Valley Lines N-scale freelance, modern-day layout.

    I'm having trouble distinguishing the different types of covered hoppers and rolling stock to buy. The materials carried will be:

    Hoppers:
    - Grain
    - Sand

    Tank:
    - Propane
    - Diesel fuel

    Can someone point me in the right direction for where I determine what makes these different?

    Thanks!
     
  2. jpwisc

    jpwisc TrainBoard Member

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    Hopper that carry sand are often the same type that carry grains. Sand is denser and heavier, so you will see it hauled more in 2 Bay Covered hoppers. Older three bays (Thrall type) will also be used. Railroads will downdgrade them as they get tough to keep clean enough for food grade hauling. Newer three bays (Like Trinity 5166 and Gunderson 5188 hoppers) are almost exclusively used for grain and corn hauling.
    Sand:
    [​IMG]
    Sand:
    [​IMG]
    Flour (note the piping underneath):
    [​IMG]
    Dry Distillers Grain:
    [​IMG]
    Grain or corn:
    [​IMG]
     
  3. jpwisc

    jpwisc TrainBoard Member

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    Also grain:
    [​IMG]

    Propane is carried in specialized tank cars, they are usually labeled for LPG service. Diesel can be carried in a more universal tank car.
    LPG:
    [​IMG]
    Deisel:
    [​IMG]
     
  4. UP_Challenger3985

    UP_Challenger3985 TrainBoard Member

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    Thanks Karl! This is super helpful! Let the searching [for decent deals] begin!
     
  5. Eagle2

    Eagle2 Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    And for what it's worth,the majority of tank cars I've seen are marked (opposite end from reporting marks) for their designated cargo.
     
  6. dualgauge

    dualgauge TrainBoard Member

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    I have no pictures. The larger the covered hopper the lighter the load, such as plastic pellets.
     
  7. MP333

    MP333 TrainBoard Supporter

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    Excellent information, thank you!
     

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