The iconic South African steam locomotive, the Garratt class!

The iconic South African steam locomotive, the Garratt class!

The Garratt class, designed by British engineer Herbert William Garratt, was a type of steam locomotive that used a unique system to conserve water. The locomotives were built in the 1920s and 1930s for the South African Railways (SAR) and were known for their distinctive design and impressive performance.

One of the innovative features of the Garratt class was its "water-recovery" system, which allowed the locomotive to reuse its own water. This system worked by collecting condensate from the exhaust steam and reusing it in the boiler, reducing the amount of water needed to be replenished. This feature was particularly useful in South Africa, where water was often scarce and difficult to access.

The Garratt class was an iconic part of South African rail history, and many of these locomotives are still preserved and restored today. Their unique design and innovative features have made them a beloved part of South African railway heritage.

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