page 13

Steam Locomotive Efficiency.

For main-line working the conventional steam locomotive still stands supreme, and recently a great deal has been done to add to steam locomotive economy and efficiency. Interesting data issued by the L.M. & S. line tells how, since 1923, the number of steam locomotives on the system has been reduced from 10,316 to 8,226, or 20 per cent. At the same time, the average weight per locomotive increased 111/2 per cent., and the average tractive power 141/2 per cent. These improvements have been secured by closer relationship of designs to locomotive tasks and by greater availability through curtailment of time in shops awaiting and under repair. This was formerly 51/2 weeks, as against the present figure of a trifle under one week. Equally helpful has been the gradual extension of mileage between general repairs by as much as 80 per cent.

It will be recalled, that some time ago the L.M. & S. authorities introduced a special locomotive costing plan. This plan has proved of the greatest assistance, and has demonstrated how great are' the economies secured through the use of modern locomotives as compared with older types. The replacement of older locomotives by machines of modern design, now actively proceeding on the L.M. & S. line, is effecting valuable savings.