SR Class 4Lav facts for kids
Quick facts for kids SR Class 4Lav |
|
|---|---|
| In service | 1932-1969 |
| Manufacturer | Southern Railway |
| Formation | power car + 2 trailer cars + power car |
| Operator(s) | Southern Railway and British Railways |
| Specifications | |
| Prime mover(s) | 4 x 275 hp traction motors total 1,100 hp (821 kW) |
| Braking system(s) | Air |
The SR Class 4Lav trains were special electric trains used in England a long time ago. They were built by the Southern Railway company to carry passengers quickly between London and Brighton. These trains were known for being "electric multiple units," which means they could run on their own power and didn't need a separate engine.
Contents
Discovering the SR Class 4Lav Trains
What is an Electric Multiple Unit (EMU)?
An Electric Multiple Unit (often called an EMU) is a type of train that uses electricity to move. Unlike some trains that need a separate engine to pull them, an EMU has its motors built right into the passenger cars. This means the train can be made up of several cars, and each one helps to power the train.
Why Were These Trains Built?
The Southern Railway built the 4Lav trains to run "semi-fast" services. This means they would make some stops along the way but not all of them, making the journey quicker than a local train. Their main job was to carry people between London and Brighton, a popular route in England.
How Were They Designed?
Each 4Lav train was made up of four cars. It had a "power car" at each end, which held the electric motors. In the middle, there were two "trailer cars" that carried passengers but didn't have their own engines. Together, the four cars formed one complete train. The trains used air brakes to stop safely. Their engines had four powerful motors, giving them a total of 1,100 horsepower.
When Were They Used?
These trains started running in 1932. They were first operated by the Southern Railway. Later, when the railways in Britain became one big company called British Rail, these trains continued to be used. They served passengers for many years, until 1969.
What Happened to the 4Lav Trains?
The 4Lav trains were eventually taken out of service. None of them were kept for museums or special trips. They were all scrapped, meaning they were taken apart and their materials were reused. Because they were scrapped before a new system called TOPS was introduced, they never received a special "TOPS class" number like many other trains did.
