Robert Stephenson and Co: North Star (N and ER)
Note: This is a sub-section of Robert Stephenson and Co
A long boiler locomotive based on Stephenson's patent of 1841; all three axles were underneath the boiler, forward of the firebox. The aim of this design was to increase power with reduced loss of heat; this arrangement also allowed a low centre of gravity and use of the existing small turntables. However the limitations on boiler diameter because of the position of the driving wheels meant that, when extra power was required, a longer boiler had to be used.
1841 One of the long boiler locomotives was introduced on the 5ft gauge Northern and Eastern Railway from London to Bishop's Stortford. It had the number 12 and the name North Star.
The boiler barrel was 11ft 3 ins long; the steam chest was between the cylinders, common to both.
See Also
Sources of Information
- The British Steam Railway Locomotive, by E. L. Ahrons