Parts of a Train: Definitions and Regional Variations

Introduction: A train is a complex system of moving parts working together to transport passengers and goods. Each component has its specific function and name, making the overall operation seamless. This article explores the terminology used to refer to different parts of a train and highlights regional variations, including definitions and usage examples.

What is One Part of a Train Called?

The fundamental parts of a train vary depending on the type of train and the context. However, several terms are commonly used in various regions. In general, a single component of a train is often referred to as a vehicle, carriage, or car.

Global Terms and Regional Usage

In a broader sense, a train consists of vehicles. Each vehicle can be a locomotive, a power car, a trailer car, or a wagon. These units can be permanently coupled in multiple units (MU). An MU is a formation of trains that can be connected with couplers at both ends. The term train can be used to refer to either a single vehicle or a group of vehicles connected in an MU.

However, the terminology can vary depending on the region and the specific type of train. For instance, in the UK, a steam train would have components such as the engine (locomotive), tender, coaches, or carriages, and a buffet car. On modern electric trains, most people refer to them simply as coaches or carriages.

Spain: Coche and Vagón

In Spain, the terminology is more specific. Coche refers to passenger transport sections such as berths, dining cars, and lounge cars. Vagón, on the other hand, refers to freight transport. In self-propelled passenger trains without a locomotive, there is a distinction between coche motor, which has propulsion engines, and coche portador, which does not.

United States: Blocks, Cuts, and Sections

Terminology in the United States varies widely and is often specific to the context and the type of train.

Freight Trains: A set of connected freight cars, all bound for the same next destination, is often referred to as a block of cars or simply a block. Cars going into the same track during switching operations are called a cut of cars or a cut. Passenger Trains: Groups of cars on passenger trains are often referred to as sections. However, not all Amtrak trains have multiple sections. For example, the Sunset Limited from Los Angeles breaks into two sections at San Antonio: the Texas Eagle to Chicago and the Sunset Limited to New Orleans. Similarly, the Empire Builder from Chicago breaks into Seattle and Portland sections at Spokane, Washington, and the Lakeshore Limited from Chicago breaks into Boston and New York sections at Albany, New York.

Before the advent of Amtrak, sections were more common on US railroads. Sometimes, such sections would not branch off to another destination but would be dropped off at a town on the route. For example, the Southern Railway used to add a large Atlanta section to its Southerner train from New Orleans.

Conclusion

The terminology used to describe the different parts of a train can vary significantly depending on the region and the type of train. While a vehicle is the most general term, more specific names like coche, wagon, buffet car, and section are used in various contexts. Understanding these terms is crucial for effective communication in the rail industry.