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It’s a start on a giant model of the unusual X12 Atomic Locomotive. In 1954, Dr. Borst from the University of Utah proposed a nuclear powered locomotive and postulated a theoretical design that intended to last an entire year on just one charge of liquid dissolved U235 fuel. With the technological constraints of his time, he was able to put the design into a two-sectioned locomotive, with the reactor in the middle of the front half and the back half being the necessary radiators to keep the machine cool.
Given my nature as Phoenix Train Works to model and build trains used in the nuclear energy industry, even I was surprised to have never heard of this train until my lil bro mentioned it one day last week or so. The Lego model is currently about 45 inches long and features articulation techniques to make it work on R40 curve track (with “SOME” overhang). The real train design has the center set of wheels motorized whereas in this model, the motor drive is between the front and middle wheel set, powering the nearest axles while the other two axles in each set pivots on their own.I have heard of a lot of different and unique train designs, but never this one. I like this concept. Sadly, I could see it ending up as an ill fated Die Hard sequel. 😀
Thanks, @dales. It’ll be the train to build in the new year.
Here’s a render of all my atomic energy themed educational train models, from raw ore to spent fuel waste and a spy satellite launch car.
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