DRG locomotive types


The locomotive type of a German steam locomotive was a secondary classification system introduced after 1924 by the Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft and comprised four parts:
  1. A letter from the adjacent table, that specified the type of locomotive.
  2. A number, usually two-digit, the first digit indicating the number of coupled axles and the second the total number of axles on the locomotive. Tender axles were not included.
  3. The permitted axle load in tonnes was given next, after a full stop separating it from the preceding axle information.
  4. If parts of the locomotive exceeded the loading gauge, this was indicated with a triangle over the axle load. If this was simply a removable chimney fitting, this was indicated with an additional bar above the point of the triangle.
Example: A DRG Class 01 express train locomotive had the following type classification: S36.20.
That meant: Express train locomotive with 3 coupled axles, a total of 6 axles and an axle load of 20 tonnes
It was intended to use this type classification system for electric locomotives as well. But because electric locomotives could be used for any duty, this plan was given up.
The primary classification system was based on class numbers which, in the case of steam locomotives ran from 01-99.

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