Blomberg B (original) (raw)

The Blomberg B is a 2-axle bogie that was introduced by EMD in 1939 with the FT locomotive series; the original "B" version plus later "M" and "X" versions were quite successful and became standard equipment on a multitude of locomotive models. They are easily identified by prominent "swing hangers" on each side which widen the effective spring base and provide a better ride. EMD literature refers to this truck as the "2 Axle Outside Swing Hanger;" informally it is named after EMD designer Martin Blomberg; this design evolved as an abbreviation of the preceding 3-axle design from the E-units; see U.S. Patent 2,189,125 filed on Jan 29, 1938 and granted on Feb 6, 1940. As of 2022 Blomberg B trucks are common sights under operating locomotives throughout North America.