BANK ENGINE Meaning and
Definition
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A bank engine refers to a type of locomotive or train engine that is specially designed to assist with hauling heavy loads up steep gradients or inclines, known as banks. Also known as a helper engine or pusher engine, a bank engine is employed to provide additional power and traction to aid trains in ascending steep hills and prevent them from stalling or losing momentum.
The primary function of a bank engine is to couple up with the rear of a train and exert an extra force to push or pull the train as it ascends an incline. This added power helps to alleviate the strain on the train's primary engine and prevents it from being overloaded during uphill sections. Bank engines are typically fitted with additional braking systems to ensure the train's safety and control when descending the incline.
To enhance its efficiency, a bank engine is often equipped with specialized features such as larger wheels or additional driving wheels to maximize its traction and power output. These engines are commonly found in regions with challenging terrains that require trains to traverse steep slopes, such as mountainous areas or hilly regions.
In summary, a bank engine is a locomotive that provides additional propulsion and assistance to trains when climbing steep gradients. It helps to maintain the train's momentum and prevent stalling by exerting extra force from the rear or in some cases pushing from the front, ultimately ensuring the safe and smooth ascent of the train and its cargo.
Common Misspellings for BANK ENGINE
- vank engine
- nank engine
- hank engine
- gank engine
- bznk engine
- bsnk engine
- bwnk engine
- bqnk engine
- babk engine
- bamk engine
- bajk engine
- bahk engine
- banj engine
- banm engine
- banl engine
- bano engine
- bani engine
- bank wngine
- bank sngine
- bank dngine
Etymology of BANK ENGINE
The term "bank engine" has its origins in the early days of railway transport. The word "bank" in this context refers to a slope or hill, typically on a railway track. A bank engine, also known as a banking engine or pilot engine, is a locomotive that assists in the movement of trains on steep gradients.
The word "bank" in this sense is derived from the Middle English word "banke" or "banck", which referred to a natural ridge or elevation. This term later evolved in the 17th century to also describe an incline in a road or railway.
"Engine" comes from the Latin word "ingenium", meaning skill or talent. In the context of a bank engine, it refers to the locomotive that provides the necessary power and traction to help trains climb uphill.
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