I was wondering if Steam Cranes are still used to clear train derailments or are the all mothballed now? What do they use to clear derailments now days if the not the Steam Cranes? Also way are there 2 types of hooks on the crane anyway? Thanks
They started to go by the wayside in the early 80's around here, though they were still in use until technology caught up and they could manufacture a 200 ton capacity crane for use on the highways. They had Hi-rail equipment and could get to the scene of a derailment much quicker than the old steam derricks. Near the end, I know there were at least 5 still operating, but the problem was, there were only two guys on the system that could run one of the things. Steam is the key word. We're all used to seeing crane operators running the machine from their little cab and moving the levers that control the hydraulics. But, it was amazing to see a guy run one of the Bucyrus Erie 200 ton derricks. All the functions were controlled by various valves that were scattered around the operators position, and it was like watching some kind of choreography; ballet, even. The sights, smells and sounds of the thing in action were no less eye catching than watching the operator himself.
I am not aware of any steam cranes, they are all diesel as far as I know. the two types of hooks are for different types of pulling, one is generally for straigh lifting and the other for pulling across the ground or up an embankment where the pulling force is at somewhat of an angle to the equipment. .
No, they don't. They have to use road cranes - think of the accident at Grayrigg some while back. They had terrible trouble clearing the line as heavy lifting equipment had to be brought quite a distance over muddy fields. I seem to remember special temporary roads had to be laid. Similarly with the freight accident in Scotland a few weeks back, roads were closed, again whilst wreckage was cleared.
I would think it is run by diesel,or electric.
