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Baldwin 2-6-0 Mogul 301-class Locomotive built in 1907

(Deployment: Panama Canal Zone Used During World War I)

The Baldwin 301-class 2-6-0 Mogul locomotive, specifically unit ICC 311 (PRR 311), played a pivotal role in military logistics during the World War I era within the Panama Canal Zone. Built in 1907 by Baldwin Locomotive Works, this locomotive was integral to the operations of the Panama Railroad (PRR), supporting both the construction and defense of the canal. Its specifications made the 301-class suitable for the challenging terrain and heavy-duty requirements of the Panama Canal Zone.

Builder: Baldwin Locomotive Works (Burnham, Williams & Co.)

Role in the Panama Canal Zone

During World War I, the strategic importance of the Panama Canal necessitated robust logistical support. Locomotive ICC 311 was stationed at Fort Kobbe, a key military installation on the Pacific side of the canal. Its primary functions included:

Transporting Military Personnel: Facilitating the movement of troops between various military posts and operational areas.
Hauling Supplies and Equipment: Delivering essential materials, including ammunition, construction supplies, and provisions, critical for both canal operations and military readiness.
Supporting Construction Projects: Assisting in the expansion and maintenance of military infrastructure, such as barracks, fortifications, and supply depots.

The locomotive's reliability and power were crucial in maintaining the efficiency of military operations during this period.

Principle Dimensions
Class	301-class
Locobase ID	12183
Railroad	Isthmian Canal Commission/Panama
Country	USA
Whyte	36562
Number in Class	40
Road Numbers	301-340
Gauge	5'
Number Built	40
Builder	Burnham, Williams & Co
Year	1907
Valve Gear	Stephenson

Locomotive Length and Weight
Driver Wheelbase (ft / m)	13 / 3.96
Engine Wheelbase (ft / m)	20.50 / 6.25
Ratio of driving wheelbase to overall engine wheelbase	0.63
Overall Wheelbase (engine & tender) (ft / m)	57.29 / 17.46
Axle Loading (Maximum Weight per Axle) (lbs / kg)
Weight on Drivers (lbs / kg)	108,000 / 48,988
Engine Weight (lbs / kg)	126,000 / 57,153
Tender Loaded Weight (lbs / kg)	70000
Total Engine and Tender Weight (lbs / kg)	196000
Tender Water Capacity (gals / ML)	4000 / 15.15
Tender Fuel Capacity (oil/coal) (gals/tons / Liters/MT)
Minimum weight of rail (calculated) (lb/yd / kg/m)	60/1

Geometry Relating to Tractive Effort
Driver Diameter (in / mm)	54/1
Boiler Pressure (psi / kPa)	180
High Pressure Cylinders (dia x stroke) (in / mm)	19" x 24" / 483x610
Tractive Effort (lbs / kg)	24,548 / 11134.80
Factor of Adhesion (Weight on Drivers / Tractive Effort)	4.4

Heating Ability
Tubes (number - dia) (in / mm)	252 - 2" / 51
Flues (number - dia) (in / mm)	?
Flue/Tube length (ft / m)	11 / 3.35
Firebox Area (sq ft / m2)	151 / 14.03
Grate Area (sq ft / m2)	23.20 / 2.16
Evaporative Heating Surface (sq ft / m2)	1590 / 147.77
Superheating Surface (sq ft / m2)	?
Combined Heating Surface (sq ft / m2)	1590 / 147.77
Evaporative Heating Surface/Cylinder Volume	201.78

Power Output
Robert LeMassena's Power Computation	4176/1
Same as above plus superheater percentage	4176
Same as above but substitute firebox area for grate area	27180
Power L1	4821
Power MT	295.24
Factor of Adhesion (Weight on Drivers / Tractive Effort)	4.91

Integration with U.S. Army Engineers

The designation of ICC 311 as "US Engineers No. 6" indicates its integration into the operations of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps was responsible for a wide range of activities in the Canal Zone, including:

Construction and Maintenance: Building and upkeeping military and canal-related infrastructure.
Logistical Coordination: Managing the transportation of materials and personnel essential for canal operations and defense.
Engineering Projects: Undertaking specialized engineering tasks to enhance the functionality and security of the canal.

Locomotive ICC 311's assignment to the Corps underscores its significance in these multifaceted operations.

Legacy and Historical Significance

After World War I, ICC 311 continued to serve in various capacities within the Panama Canal Zone. Its contributions during a critical period of global conflict highlight the essential role of rail transportation in military logistics. The locomotive stands as an example of the engineering prowess of the early 20th century and the strategic importance of the Panama Canal in global affairs.

The Baldwin 301-class 2-6-0 Mogul locomotive ICC 311 exemplifies the integration of industrial engineering into military operations. Its service during World War I in the Panama Canal Zone was instrumental in ensuring the canal's functionality and security. As a vital asset to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ICC 311's legacy reflects the broader narrative of technological advancement supporting military objectives during times of global conflict.