Product Features and Details
Prototype:
The French ZR1 Steam Powered Snow Plow was built in 1907 by ALCO in the USA. They were purchased by the French PO Railroad company and were used in the Cantal region of France for clearing the passage between Neussargues and Bort Organs. The Cantal region is known for it's violent snowstorms and terrible winters. The region also has many large slopes and extremely sharpe curves but the ZR1 was able to handle the conditions of this region easily. The ZR1 was a very capable machine which was also very practical and efficient. Alco designed the ZR1 like the snow plows which were used in Canada, with large rotary blades a large steam boiler and Belpaire fire systems that drove a powerful turbine. The monstrous turbine weighted 8 tons and was reinforced with two tie rods. It had a drive shaft of 216mm worthy of that of a boat. The ZR1 was equipped with a 17m3 tender to fuel the boiler fire. This was a large and terrifying machine, it was capable of throwing snow 250 feet, which was remarkable. Today this incredible machine can be seen on display at the train museum in Mulhouse France.
Model: Brassline's model of the ZR1 is incredible, it is all handmade out of brass and fully functional. Model is equipped with a powerful Canon motor and DCC 6-pin digital interface, it also features a full interior with extensive detail and interior illumination. The model also has functional spinning rotary blades, and bright LED spot lights. Model is very limited and simply exquisite, it would make a great addition to any layout.
