[Wig-Wag]

Originally Posted by ethereal_reality

I thought you might like this.


http://www.ebay.it/itm/720-RAILROAD-...-/171305700671

"noiseless and smokeless" -really, why the smokestacks then?



Despite being over 3,000 miles from L.A., here's a 'noirish-looking' photograph of the H.K. Porter Co. building in downtown Pittsburgh, 1953.


http://bradystewartphoto.photoshelte...000tXhQ09JLamg



Thanks for all the information Wig-Wag. It's much appreciated.

__

ER, Thanks for the catalog cover and the Porter building photo!

The term smokeless locomotive actually refers to what is more commonly known as a "Fireless" locomotive. These locomotives were used where the fire of a conventional locomotive might prove hazardous - munitions plants, creosote plants, etc., or by facilities wanting to maintain a smokeless environment such as large hospitals, or packing plants. The "fireless" boiler was actually a reservoir that was filled with steam from the steam plant or air compressors at the facility. The engine would perform its chores until it ran low on steam, at which time it would return to be refilled.

See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireless_locomotive

If I recall correctly a friend of mine has a Porter builders list. When he returns from his current travels I may, just for giggles, see if I can find the construction number and build dates of the two CVR locomotives.

Cheers,
Jack