BALLAST CAR Meaning and
Definition
-
A ballast car is a type of railway freight car that is specifically designed to carry ballast, which refers to the coarse, crushed stone or gravel used to provide stability and weight distribution to railroad tracks. Also known as a gondola car, the ballast car is an essential component of railway construction and maintenance operations.
The primary purpose of a ballast car is to transport the ballast material to the desired locations along the railway line. These cars are typically open-top with low sides and often have hatches or doors for easy loading and unloading of the ballast. They are designed to withstand the weight and abrasion of the ballast, ensuring safe and efficient transportation.
Ballast cars play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and stability of the railroad tracks. The ballast is spread evenly along the tracks to provide a solid foundation and absorb shocks and vibrations caused by passing trains. This helps to prevent the tracks from shifting, settling, or becoming uneven, ultimately ensuring a smoother and safer ride for trains and reducing the risk of derailment.
In addition to their use during construction and maintenance, ballast cars may also be employed for the removal of old or excess ballast material. By carrying and distributing ballast, these specialized railway freight cars contribute significantly to the overall safety, efficiency, and longevity of the railway infrastructure.
Common Misspellings for BALLAST CAR
- vallast car
- nallast car
- hallast car
- gallast car
- bzllast car
- bsllast car
- bwllast car
- bqllast car
- baklast car
- baplast car
- baolast car
- balkast car
- balpast car
- baloast car
- ballzst car
- ballsst car
- ballwst car
- ballqst car
- ballaat car
- ballazt car
Etymology of BALLAST CAR
The word "ballast car" is a combination of two terms: "ballast" and "car".
The term "ballast" comes from the Middle English word "balast", which meant "packed load" or "ship's cargo". It originated from the Old Swedish word "ballester", meaning "tiller, ballast". In maritime context, "ballast" refers to heavy material (such as gravel, sand, or water) used to stabilize a ship or regulate its buoyancy. This prevents the vessel from rolling excessively during rough seas and adds stability to improve its performance.
The term "car" has its roots in the Latin word "carrus", meaning "two-wheeled wagon". Over time, it evolved to refer to any vehicle used for transportation.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
