Rapido, 538021, N Scale, Auto-Flood III RD Coal Hoppers, KPLX, 6 Pack #3

N Scale, Auto-Flood III RD Coal Hoppers

6-pack includes the following numbers:  6109, 6113, 6128, 6137, 6142, 6222

About the Model:

Features:

• Die-cast frame and floor for optimum car weight
• Full interior rivet and K-member details
• Super-detailed end cages including air and brake piping
• Barber S-2 100-ton Trucks with metal wheels
• Hopper bays feature highly-detailed outlet gates
• Separately applied end cross-over platforms
• Separately applied uncoupling levers
• Accurate paint and lettering
• Removable coal load included
• Multiple road numbers available for each scheme
• Available in singles or multi-packs*
• Multi-packs boxed for individual sale

About the Prototype:

All-Aluminum Railcar Overview

Production of the 4200 cubic foot, exterior-post rapid discharge hopper began in 2004, marking a significant advancement in railcar design. These cars were developed to meet the growing demand for efficient and robust coal transportation across North America. Thousands of these cars have since traversed the continent, playing a vital role in the movement of millions of tons of coal annually. Their widespread adoption has made them an iconic part of modern-day coal trains.

Key Features

• Capacity & Structure:

  • With a 4200 cubic foot capacity, these hoppers transport bulk coal efficiently.

  • Their all-aluminum body minimizes weight while maintaining durability, enhancing load capacity and reducing rail wear.

• Unloading Capabilities:

  • Equipped with bottom bay doors for rapid discharge, unloading is completed within seconds, ensuring minimal delays.

  • Optional rotary couplers at the A-end (or both ends for double-rotary cars) allow unloading at facilities with rotary systems. Color-coded ends streamline operations for rail crews.

• Exterior Post Design:

  • Offers structural strength and reduced weight compared to interior-post models, making the car suitable for heavy-duty operations.

Manufacturing History

The use of aluminum in railcar manufacturing dates back to the 1930s, when experiments with lightweight materials began to improve efficiency in both freight and passenger cars. By the 2000s, advancements in aluminum fabrication and welding techniques enabled the production of durable, all-aluminum railcars like the 4200 cubic foot hopper. These innovations were driven by the need to reduce operational costs and improve the sustainability of rail transport. The manufacturing process focused on precision engineering to ensure the cars could withstand the rigors of heavy-duty coal transportation while maintaining their lightweight advantage.

Operational Reach

These railcars dominate the coal logistics network, serving major mining areas such as the Powder River Basin, the Appalachians, and other prominent locations across North America. Their widespread use ensures they remain a familiar sight on the rails.

Applications Beyond Coal Transport

Although primarily designed for coal, these railcars could be adapted for other uses:

• Agriculture: For transporting grains and fertilizers.

• Mining: For bulk materials like iron ore or gypsum with suitable modifications.

• Waste Management: As efficient bulk carriers for recyclable materials or industrial waste.

Related Railcar Designs

• Rotary Gondolas: Suitable for heavy-duty bulk materials, unloaded via rotary systems.

• Covered Hoppers: Designed for protecting sensitive cargo (e.g., grain) from environmental factors.

• Interior-Post Hoppers: Built for durability in demanding environments, handling materials prone to causing exterior damage.