Steam Loco Design is an engineering design practice specialising in steam locomotives and railway rolling-stock.

We have a wealth of experience in the use of the latest materials and components and the application of modern steam locomotive design practice including improvements in areas such as combustion systems, draughting, superheating, piston valve cylinders, valve gear and feedwater heating. Our work is backed by meticulous design calculations and we make extensive use of computer modelling and, where appropriate, techniques such as FMEA (Failure Mode Effect Analysis).

The range of services we provide includes:

  • Requirements analysis and preparation of specifications

  • Locomotive design

  • Reducing costs and improving performance

  • Problem analysis and rectification

  • Safety and fitness for purpose assessments

  • Rolling-stock design

  • Design of replacement parts and ancillary equipment

  • Management of engineering programmes

  • Engine crew training programmes

Full details of all the services we offer can be found here.

Our customers are typically railway operators, locomotive or rolling-stock manufacturers, boiler makers, component suppliers and individual locomotive owners.

We employ a collaborative approach to projects, working with clients and their staff to provide the appropriate level of support, from one-off stress calculations to the design of complete locomotives — and everything in-between.

If you would like assistance with any aspect of steam locomotive design, whatever the gauge and wherever you're located, please contact us, we will be delighted to discuss your specific needs and to provide estimates and quotations as appropriate.