Dampflok

Dampflok, short for Dampflokomotive, is the German term for a steam locomotive powered by an engine that uses steam produced in a boiler. In a Dampflok, fuel is burned to heat water in a boiler, generating high‑pressure steam that is admitted to cylinders. The expanding steam drives pistons connected to driving wheels via connecting rods, while a tender carries the locomotive’s fuel and water.

The development of steam locomotives began in the early 19th century and rapidly spread worldwide. They became the dominant form of railway traction during the 19th and early 20th centuries. From the mid‑ to late 20th century, diesel and electric locomotives largely replaced steam on mainlines, though Dampfloks remain active on heritage railways, in museums, and for demonstration services in many countries.

Key components include the boiler, firebox, cylinders, pistons, valve gear, driving wheels, and tender. Fuel is burned in the firebox to heat water in the boiler, generating steam that is regulated and fed to the cylinders. The valve gear controls steam admission and exhaust, and the resulting piston movement turns the driving wheels. Exhaust steam exits via the smokestack, contributing to locomotive draft.

Steam conditions vary, with saturated or superheated steam used in different designs. Locomotives may have one or multiple cylinders and may feature inside or outside arrangements. Wheel arrangements are described by specific notation, and Dampfloks were built in a range of sizes and power classes for shunting, freight, or passenger service.

Today, many Dampfloks are preserved and operated on heritage lines, where they illustrate the routing, technology, and aesthetics of historical railroading.