X12 Atomic Powered Locomotive

[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

It’s a start on a giant model of the unusual X12 Atomic Locomotive. In 1954, Dr. Borst from the University of Utah proposed a nuclear powered locomotive and postulated a theoretical design that intended to last an entire year on just one charge of liquid dissolved U235 fuel. With the technological constraints of his time, he was able to put the design into a two-sectioned locomotive, with the reactor in the middle of the front half and the back half being the necessary radiators to keep the machine cool.
Given my nature as Phoenix Train Works to model and build trains used in the nuclear energy industry, even I was surprised to have never heard of this train until my lil bro mentioned it one day last week or so. The Lego model is currently about 45 inches long and features articulation techniques to make it work on R40 curve track (with “SOME” overhang). The real train design has the center set of wheels motorized whereas in this model, the motor drive is between the front and middle wheel set, powering the nearest axles while the other two axles in each set pivots on their own.

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[Dale Sims]

I have heard of a lot of different and unique train designs, but never this one. I like this concept. Sadly, I could see it ending up as an ill fated Die Hard sequel. 😀

[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

Thanks, @dales. It’ll be the train to build in the new year.
Here’s a render of all my atomic energy themed educational train models, from raw ore to spent fuel waste and a spy satellite launch car.

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[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

And a cool cutaway view I did in photo editing. XD

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[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

I’ve started ordering parts for the X12 Atomic Powered Locomotive in small batches. Should be done in time for the next TUBS show as part of the PTW collection of educational STEM themed trains. Of course, we’ll try running it on the LUG city layout. @dales 🙂

[Dale Sims]

I think it’ll be awesome to see in motion!
I’m looking forward to getting some inspiration from the NMRA show here in town this weekend. I like building the non-realistic trains or some of the concept ones that never came to be.

[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

Since the inside of the locomotive is filled with four motors, two battery boxes, differentials, etc., been working on a standalone diagrammatic model of the nuclear powered electric motor propulsion to go alongside the train.

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[Nancy Flury Carlson]

@playingwithechoes awesome nuclear train there. Do you want to exhibit it at the American Nuclear Society outreach table at the Vintage Grand Prix? I’m planning to be there with my reactor, cooling tower and microscale AP1000 plant on Saturday and Sunday July 18 and 19. Or any of your other nuclear stuff?

[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

Hi Nancy. I have family in town that weekend so I can’t. But I will be sure to stop by and check out the table when we do visit the Grand Prix as part of the planned family activities.

[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

Here’s two photos of the finished build from the planned unveiling on July 4th on my Phoenix Train Works Page.

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[PLAYINGWITHECHOES]

Don’t know if you saw it on FB, Dale but here’s the video of it in action. It’s in black and white like an old 1950s film, as most of my footage of trains being tested are in black and white.

[Gabe Vistica]

9/10, not enough “neutrons hitting the image sensor” flares in the footage 😁

[Nancy Flury Carlson]

That video is amazing! Bravo

[Benjamin C Good]

Excellent music choice.

[Dale Sims]

That engine looks so funny going around those tiny curves. 😀

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