Conventional intermodal cars are flat cars specifically equipped to carry trailers, containers,
chassis, or removable trailer bodies for the transportation of freight
in TOFC/COFC (Trailer on Flat Car/Container on Flat Car) service and have a tare weight of 33,000 pounds or greater.
- "Single length" cars will handle one unit at least 40' long and the cars
will generally be 50' to 75' long.
- "Double length" cars will handle 2 units
at least 40' long and the cars will generally be 85' to 89' 4" long.
- "Low
level" is 2'9" or less above the rail.
- "Standard level" is
3' 4" above the rail or over. These cars will not handle containers more
than 8' wide.
Lighter weight, low profile intermodal cars consist of intermodal
flatcars with a tare weight of less than 33,000 pounds or articulated and
multi-platform cars. These cars have a deck height of 2' 8" above
the rail or less. These cars are suitable only for lift-on/lift-off terminal
handling (no bridge plates and non-retractable hitches), and will
handle trailers with tandem wheels up to 102" wide.
Double Stack Cars
Stack cars, well cars (COFC only) are cars capable of carrying double stack containers.
"IBC type" refers to interbox connectors or cars without bulkheads in which
the top container is held into place by means of corner castings. "Bulkhead
Type" refers to a container car that has bulkheads at the ends of the car.
Single well double stack cars have a load limit of 135,000 pounds or more.
"Light capacity" refers to five-well cars with 100-ton trucks at the intermediate
locations. "Heavy capacity" refers to five-well cars with 125-ton trucks
at the intermediate locations.
Containers
Containers are an independent structural unit, either open or fully enclosed, designed for
the intermodal transport of commodities. A large percentage of intermodal
containers are designed with standard corner fittings for positive securement
to highway trailers, rail cars, or ocean going vessels, thereby facilitating
interchange between carriers in international trade.
Trailers
A cargo carrying highway vehicle without automotive power. Trailers are usually hauled by
a powered vehicle called a tractor. Trailers became of major importance
to the railroad industry with the introduction of piggyback or TOFC service.
|
|
