Coiled steel might not be something you think about every day, unless you work in construction or manufacturing. However, this versatile material is essential for producing a vast array of everyday products, from the vehicles we drive and the appliances in our homes to the lockers at the gym or school.
Railroads are crucial in the transportation of coiled steel and other metal commodities, ensuring they reach manufacturing plants where they are transformed into the final products we rely on. In 2019 alone, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR), railroads in the US moved nearly 569,000 carloads of steel and primary metal products.
To handle this specialized cargo, the rail industry utilizes specially designed rail cars known as coil cars. These cars feature unique “troughs,” or open compartments, engineered to securely hold steel coils of various sizes. Let’s delve deeper into the world of coil cars and explore how they safely and efficiently transport coiled metals across the country.
The Purpose of a Coil Rail Car
A coil car’s primary function is the transportation of coiled steel – essentially rolled metal sheets. This steel is a fundamental component in numerous industries, serving as the base material for construction projects and the manufacturing of essential items like automobiles, industrial machinery, and common household appliances. Think about the steel body panels of a car, or the internal components of your refrigerator – chances are, coiled steel played a part in their creation. The efficiency of coil cars in delivering this raw material is vital for keeping production lines moving and industries supplied.
Anatomy of a Coil Car: Design and Features
Coil cars are not all created equal; they come in diverse configurations, varying in length, tonnage capacity, and specialized features tailored to specific commodities. One key design element is the trough, which is engineered to prevent heavy steel coils from rolling during transit, ensuring stability and safety. Some coil cars incorporate side brackets that allow for securement of the load using straps or chains instead of cables, offering flexibility in load securement. Others boast designs that minimize or eliminate the need for special securement measures altogether, streamlining the loading and unloading process.
While steel itself is generally robust and weather-resistant, many coil cars are equipped with protective “hoods.” These hood-like covers offer crucial protection from the elements when necessary, safeguarding sensitive steel types or preventing surface damage from rain, snow, or debris. When not in use, these hoods can be conveniently stacked, maximizing space and versatility. This adaptability makes coil cars suitable for transporting a wide range of coiled metal products, regardless of weather conditions.
Loading and Unloading Procedures for Coil Cars
The heavy nature of steel coils necessitates specialized equipment for loading and unloading coil cars. Typically, industrial facilities employ overhead cranes or heavy-duty forklifts to handle these massive loads. Overhead cranes provide vertical lifting power and precision, allowing for careful placement of coils into the car’s troughs. Forklifts, equipped with specialized coil handling attachments, offer greater maneuverability for positioning coils within the railcar. These processes require skilled operators and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure efficient and damage-free handling of the valuable steel cargo.
Advantages of Using Coil Cars for Steel Shipping
Shippers opt for coil cars due to their remarkable efficiency in transporting large volumes of freight at once. A single coil car can handle loads up to a staggering 200,000 pounds, making rail transport significantly more efficient and cost-effective compared to over-the-road trucking for bulk steel shipments. To put this into perspective, a single train can haul the equivalent freight of approximately 300 trucks, drastically reducing transportation costs and congestion.
Beyond economic advantages, railroads are also a more environmentally responsible shipping solution. On average, rail transport is three to four times more fuel-efficient than trucking. By choosing coil cars and rail, shippers contribute to lower fuel consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with sustainability goals while efficiently moving essential materials. Furthermore, shifting freight from trucks to trains helps alleviate traffic congestion on highways, improving overall transportation infrastructure efficiency.
Interesting Facts About Coil Cars
- Coil cars are designed to carry substantial loads, with a maximum capacity of around 200,000 pounds per car.
- Covered coil cars typically utilize two “hoods” or lids for weather protection. Each hood is approximately 26 feet in length and weighs around 2,400 pounds, highlighting the robust construction of these protective elements.
Discover More About Coil Car Transportation
To gain further insights into coil cars or explore the benefits of rail shipping for metals and construction materials, we encourage you to get in touch with our experts.
Interested in learning about other types of rail car equipment? Explore our comprehensive rail car type guide to discover the diverse world of rail freight transportation, including boxcars, flatcars, gondolas, and covered hoppers.
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