LNER Class A4 facts for kids

Quick facts for kids LNER Class A4
60009 Union of South Africa in 1951
Type and origin Power type Steam Designer H. N. Gresley Builder LNER Doncaster Works Build date 1935–1938 Total produced 35
Specifications Configuration: ​  • Whyte 4-6-2  • UIC 2'C1h Gauge 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) Leading dia. 3 ft 2 in (0.965 m) Driver dia. 6 ft 8 in (2.032 m) Trailing dia. 3 ft 8 in (1.118 m) Loco weight 102 tons 19 cwt (230,600 lb or 104.6 t) Total weight 167 tons 2 cwt (374,300 lb or 169.8 t) Fuel type Coal Fuel capacity 8 tons 0 cwt (17,900 lb or 8.1 t) Water cap. 5,000 imperial gallons (23,000 L; 6,000 US gal) Boiler pressure 250 psi (1.72 MPa) Cylinders Three Cylinder size 18.5 in × 26 in (470 mm × 660 mm) Loco brake Vacuum Train brakes Vacuum 60009, 60007 & 60019 have been fitted with air brakes
Performance figures Tractive effort 35,455 lbf (157.71 kN)
Career Power class BR: 8P6F Number in class 35 Nicknames "Streak" Withdrawn 1942, 1962–1966 Disposition 6 preserved

Three A4s that have been saved called 60009 Union of South Africa, 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley and 60019 Bittern.

The LNER Class A4 was a famous type of steam locomotive (a train engine) built in England. These powerful engines were made starting in 1935. Sir Nigel Gresley designed them for the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) company.

A total of 35 of these locomotives were built. They were designed to be very fast and had a super sleek, aerodynamic shape. This special shape helped them cut through the air easily.

One of the most famous A4s is number 4468, named "Mallard". It is known as the fastest steam locomotive ever made! On July 3, 1938, "Mallard" set a world speed record of 125 miles per hour (201.16 km/h).

Today, only six of these amazing A4 locomotives still exist. The others were taken apart for scrap metal when steam trains were no longer used in Britain.

Images for kids

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  Plaque on Mallard in commemoration of breaking the previous world speed record of 124.5 mph

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  George Henry Haygreen (left) on his retirement day with Fireman Charlie Fisher

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  No. 60034 Lord Faringdon hauling a train at Peterborough railway station in 1959.