Ol49

Ol49 is a class of steam locomotive built in Poland. Designed by engineers at the Fablok factory in Chrzanów, these locomotives were primarily intended for passenger and express train duties. Construction of the Ol49 class began in 1949, hence the designation. They were a development of earlier Polish locomotive designs, incorporating improvements for performance and reliability.

The Ol49 locomotives were characterized by their 2-D-2 (or 4-6-4 in Whyte notation) wheel arrangement, meaning they had a leading four-wheel bogie, followed by six driving wheels, and a trailing four-wheel bogie. This configuration provided good stability at higher speeds, making them suitable for express services. They were equipped with superheated steam boilers and had a relatively powerful engine for their time.

A significant number of Ol49 locomotives were built, with production continuing for several years. They served across the Polish State Railways (PKP) network for many decades, playing a crucial role in passenger transportation. Many of these locomotives were later converted to burn oil fuel instead of coal, a common practice to reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency.

While many Ol49 locomotives have since been withdrawn from regular service due to the advent of diesel and electric traction, a few examples have been preserved. These preserved locomotives are often maintained by railway enthusiasts and heritage organizations, and some are occasionally operated for special heritage excursions, allowing the public to experience these historical machines.