RTHF377 Ballast Hopper Wagon: Self-Discharging Open Hopper for Bulk Material Transport
The RTHF377 Ballast Hopper Wagon is a versatile self-discharging open hopper wagon engineered for efficient transport of bulk materials such as ballast and ore. Designed for maximum operational flexibility, this wagon features a pneumatic unloading system with six bottom doors that discharge materials to both sides of the rails and between the rails. Built to meet AAR or TB standards, it offers reliable performance for railway maintenance and mining operations.
Key Design Features
Multi-Directional Unloading Capability
Equipped with six bottom doors—two left, two right, and two center doors—this wagon allows materials to be discharged on either side of the rails as well as between the rails, providing exceptional flexibility at job sites.
Dual-Mode Door Operation
The bottom doors are pneumatically operated using air drawn directly from the train brake pipe, eliminating the need for external power sources. For added versatility, the left and right doors can also be manually operated when required.
Open-Top Loading
The wagon features an open top design for rapid and straightforward loading using standard overhead equipment, maximizing loading efficiency.
Customizable Axle Load
With an axle load range of 16t to 23t configurable according to client requirements, this wagon adapts to diverse track conditions and regulatory environments.
Compliance Options
Available in both AAR (Association of American Railroads) and TB (Chinese railway standard) configurations to meet specific regional operational requirements.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Tare Weight |
≤24t |
| Payload |
60t |
| Capacity |
36m³ |
| Axle Load |
Configurable: 16t to 23t (per client requirement) |
| Track Gauge |
Configurable (per client requirement) |
| Maximum Operating Speed |
80km/h |
| Length over Coupler |
Approximately 12038mm |
| Minimum Curve Radius (Single Wagon) |
70m |
| Unloading Doors |
6 total: 2 left doors, 2 right doors, 2 center doors |
| Bottom Door Opening |
Approximately 190mm |
| End Wall Angle |
36.5° |
| Brake Type |
AAR or TB (as specified) |
| Coupler Type |
Configurable (per client requirement) |
| Bogie Type |
Cast type |
| Door Operation |
Pneumatically operated (air from train brake pipe); left and right doors also manually operable |
Operational Advantages
Job Site Versatility
The ability to discharge materials to both sides and between rails eliminates the need for track repositioning during unloading, significantly improving productivity in track maintenance and construction projects.
Self-Sufficient Operation
Pneumatic operation using brake pipe air means no additional compressors or external power sources are required at the unloading site.
Maintenance-Friendly Design
Manual override capability for side doors ensures operations can continue even in the event of pneumatic system issues, minimizing downtime.
Proven Durability
Cast bogies and robust construction ensure reliable performance under the demanding conditions of ballast and ore transport.
Global Compatibility
Available in both AAR and TB configurations, with customizable axle loads, track gauges, and coupler types to suit regional requirements worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What materials can the RTHF377 Ballast Hopper Wagon transport?
A: This wagon is designed for bulk materials such as railway ballast, ore, and similar granular or aggregate products requiring open-top loading and bottom discharge.
Q: How does the pneumatic unloading system work?
A: The system uses compressed air drawn directly from the train's brake pipe to operate the six bottom doors. This integrated design eliminates the need for external power sources or additional equipment at unloading sites.
Q: Can the doors be operated manually if the pneumatic system is unavailable?
A: Yes, the left and right doors feature manual operation capability, allowing unloading to continue during maintenance or in situations where pneumatic operation is not possible.
Q: Where does the material discharge during unloading?
A: Depending on which doors are opened, material can be discharged to the left side of the rails, the right side of the rails, or between the rails, providing maximum flexibility for different track maintenance scenarios.
Q: What compliance standards are available for this wagon?
A: The wagon can be manufactured to meet either AAR standards (North American market) or TB standards (Chinese railway market), based on client requirements.
For detailed technical specifications, pricing, or to discuss custom configuration options for your specific application, contact our rail equipment specialists today.
