What’s this called ?

[TRAX]

Hi there everyone

Just a small question here ... can anyone tell me what this equipment on trains is called ? I’ve circled what I’m talking about.


Photo: Joshua Brown on Wikimedia


Photo: AROnline


Photo: ScotRail on Twitter

Thanks !

 

[dp21]

Typically called a valance (my spelling may be off).

The only real purpose it serves on modern trains is aerodynamics and protecting some of the underframe equipment behind it.

 

[aleggatta]

Hi there everyone

Just a small question here ... can anyone tell me what this equipment on trains is called ? I’ve circled what I’m talking about.

View attachment 55248
Photo: Joshua Brown on Wikimedia

View attachment 55249
Photo: AROnline

View attachment 55250
Photo: ScotRail on Twitter

Thanks !

As the other poster has said- yes that's the valance. The purpose of them on electrostars seems purely decorative, but they probably have some minimal aerodynamics thrown in!

 

[XCTurbostar]

@dp21 Is correct. I’ve also seen it referenced as an ‘Air Dam’ before as well

 

[TRAX]

Thank you so much for the answers guys !

 

[AM9]

They may give some benefit in winter conditions to prevent the build-up of snow and ice around the front of the leading bogie. Also, there may be a similar gain with leaves/grass and other light vegetation in the autumn.

 

[Rob F]

Why did the design of this area change between various builds of Turbostar?

 

[whhistle]

Why did the design of this area change between various builds of Turbostar?

I guess the evolving design.
The light clusters are also different so perhaps some of the gubbins underneath could jig about to make maintenance easier.
Don't know of the exact differences though.