Blomberg B

The Blomberg B is a 2-axle bogie that was introduced by EMD in 1939 with the FT locomotive series; the original "B" version plus later "M" and "X" versions were quite successful and became standard equipment on a multitude of locomotive models. They are easily identified by prominent "swing hangers" on each side which widen the effective spring base and provide a better ride. EMD literature refers to this truck as the "2 Axle Outside Swing Hanger;" informally it is named after EMD designer Martin Blomberg; this design evolved as an abbreviation of the preceding 3-axle design from the E-units; see filed on Jan 29, 1938 and granted on Feb 6, 1940. As of 2022 Blomberg B trucks are common sights under operating locomotives throughout North America.

B version

The "B" version is the original 1939 design. EMD Blomberg B trucks are seen on other makers' locomotives; this occasionally resulted when buyers of new GE locomotives preferred trade-in EMD trucks and/or motors, instead of GE standard equipment.

Image:Sw1504.jpg, EMD Blomberg B trucks on an EMD SW1500
Image:CSX 5701 at Atlanta, GA on June 10, 1987 (22146019343).jpg, EMD Blomberg B trucks on a GE U36B

M version

The M version (meaning "modified") was introduced in 1972 with the EMD Dash 2 locomotive series; it is also used on later models such as the GP50, GP60, F40PH and F59PH, as well as the MPI MPXpress.

X version

The X version (from "express") was introduced in 2007 with the MPI MPXpress locomotive series; its formal model is MPI 2237. This version directly evolved from the Blomberg M, but is longer and thus not rebuilt from older Blomberg frames.

Image:Brampton ON GOT-655 MPI-MP40PH-3C 2017-03-23 (2).jpg, MPI Blomberg X trucks on an MP40
Image:GO Transit MP54AC 647.jpg, MPI Blomberg X trucks on an MP54

See also

* Bogie
* Flexicoil suspension

References

{{Locomotive running gear

Bogie