#railway operating division

[edwardthomasnw]

So recently a while ago I started drawing up a list of the War Department Light Railway's locos, and because I'm me I'm having a crack at the full (or close as) ROD roster

Ohdeargodthiswasamistake

[hazel-of-sodor]

Tonight's file is the ROD 2-8-0. One f my favorite engines.

[townpostin]

Freight Train Accident Damages Foot Over Bridge at Sonua Station

Operations on main lines disrupted as damaged foot over bridge is removed. A freight train with an open door collided with a foot over bridge pillar, causing damage at Sonua station. JAMSHEDPUR – In a significant incident, a freight train passing through Sonua station in the Chakradharpur Railway Division caused substantial damage to a foot over bridge after its open door struck the bridge…

[togetherness23]

The model steam engines of the Western Diorama from Night at the Museum*

*only across the four movies. I don’t know whether other NATM media (ex. the novels) mention them.

NATM folks might recognize my sideblog where I’ve been focusing on that series overall -> @here-comes-moonshine. This is my main blog for talking trains. I’m not a particularly knowledgeable railfan (and any of y’all are free to correct me on anything said here). However, I’ve seen little discussion about the locomotives in this series (even the wikis are lacking in that regard), so I want to put a spotlight on them!

I’m not 100% sure what exactly the diorama is trying to represent, but I’d guess that it takes place in the latter half of the 19th century, somewhere in the West/Southwest.

The Western Diorama has had a consistent layout of two tracks: one on the upper level that appears to stretch all the way across the diorama (with a bridge portion); and one on the floor level that runs more than halfway across the diorama and appears to be under construction. Both of them have tunnels on the sides with the walls. For the original live action movies, r/modeltrains’ consensus (w/input from the apparent builder of the scene!) is that the lower track is G scale/G gauge (1.75 in, or 45 mm).

Now for the engines:

Union Pacific No. 119

Appears in Night at the Museum and Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

UP 119 is the model engine that is seen in the opening sequences that showcase the Western diorama and in subsequent scenes taking place in that setting. From the viewer’s POV, she is the one on the upper track close to the tunnel on the right; and it appears to stay in that spot facing left in all of its appearances.

——

Union Pacific “American” 4-4-0

Built: 1868, by Rogers Locomotive and Machine Works

Gauge: Standard gauge (4ft 8.5 in, or 1435mm)

Power type/fuel: Steam/Coal

Relevant information for the time period: It is famously known for being one of the two engines that met up at the famous Golden Spike ceremony. Other than that, it worked in the Utah Division of the Union Pacific Railroad as a freight engine (WY and UT) until it was scrapped in 1903.

No. 4, The ‘Eureka’

Appears in Night at the Museum

The Eureka is the model engine that was used to ram Larry’s head. From the viewer’s POV, she is the one on the lower track facing right; and she isn’t visible until she comes out of the tunnel on the left, runs forward, and then derails after failing to kill him. According to one image of the diorama, it might also have its own coach?

——

Facts about the real Eureka:

Baldwin Class 8/18 C 4-4-0

Built: 1875, by Baldwin Locomotive Works

Gauge: Narrow gauge (3ft, or 914mm)

Power type/fuel: Steam/Wood

Relevant information for the time period: It first worked on the Eureka and Palisade Railway (NV), hauling both goods and passenger trains to and from the cities Eureka (for the silver mines) and Palisade (for connecting to the Central Pacific Railroad) until 1901.

The New South Wales C32 class locomotive?

Appears in Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again

I’ve asked around, and it’s definitely not an American locomotive. If @/angryskarloey’s guess at the engine’s class is right (thank you a TREMENDOUS amount, Ajax), this is actually a locomotive that was put into operation in Australia, and decades after the former two engines would’ve been built.

This engine is the only one that is visibly seen in the diorama, seemingly taking the place of UP 119 on the upper track. It also remains still and faces left throughout its appearances.

——

(Assumed) New South Wales C32 Class 4-6-0

Built: Beyer, Peacock & Company, Baldwin Locomotive Works, Clyde Engineering, Eveleigh Railway Workshops (1892-1911)

Gauge: Standard gauge (4ft 8.5 in, or 1435mm)

Power type/fuel: Steam/Coal

Relevant information for the time period: This locomotive was notably versatile, being used in goods, mail, and passenger/express services.

Fun facts:

Some American locomotives around the transcontinental railroad period were named after Greek or Roman deities. One of Eureka’s surviving sister engines was named Jupiter. Jupiter was also the name of the other locomotive that met up with UP 119 at the Golden Spike ceremony. (Pssst, Roman diorama!)

Both UP 119 and Jupiter were not the original engines chosen to pull the special trains for the Golden Spike ceremony! Both of their stories of how they ended up being the ones to replace their respective engines to go to the ceremony are rather fortunate.

The Eureka was bought by Warner Bros in 1939 and featured in many western movies. (The irony of its model engine counterpart in NATM is not lost on me.)

Eureka is one of three remaining engines of her class! Ironically, she herself is privately owned, while both of her sister engines are on display in museums— Sonoma in the California State Railroad Museum and Jupiter in the National Museum of American History. (That’s a Smithsonian Institution!)

Not-so-fun facts:

The original UP 119 shares a similar fate with Jupiter of being scrapped for $1000 despite their historical significance. Replicas of both engines still exist today at the Golden Spike history museum.

In 1985, the Eureka was damaged by a fire in Old Vegas, where it was on display. It was, fortunately, restored a year later after being bought by Dan Markoff, who currently owns it.

[blaze-aus-steam-lover]

The Queensland C17 class

Queensland Railways C17 Class No.967 in the Historical Gympie Station Platform. [01/08/2020) : r/queensland

The Queensland Railways C17 class is a class of 4-8-0 steam locomotives operated by the Queensland Railways (QR). The class was designed to be an improvement of the C16 class. As per QR's classification system any class with a C had 4 driving axles on the locomotive. 227 locomotives were built from 1920 when the first engine No. 15 until 1953 when No. 1000 was the last delivered. The design of the last inspired Commonwealth Railways to have their NM class built with some modification.

Queensland Rail Heritage 1951 steam train C17 class number… | Flickr

The class hauled mail trains on the lines that could not accommodate the much heavier B18¼ class. They also hauled passenger trains, goods, mixed trains and branch line work. The class was the heaviest locomotives that could operate north of MacKay until 1948. The class was also responsible for hauling the Inlander, Midlander and the Westlander trains for parts of the journey up until the introduction of diesel electric locomotives.

Australian 1951 built C17 class locomotive number 974 leav… | Flickr

25 where preserved and 202 where scrapped of the class. The Mary Valley Rattler a Heritage Railway has 8 of the class. No. 1000 of the class is at Queensland Rail Heritage Division and is stored at the Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich, Queensland.

videos of the class running:

Queensland Rail Heritage - Kingaroy Branch C17 974 - 1997

C17 No.974 Goes To Yandina

C17 974 - Cab Ride Clifton to Toowoomba - 24/09/2016

[hopefulkidshark]

Northern Explorer Train, Auckland, New Zealand: Journey from Auckland to Wellington... The Northern Explorer is a long-distance passenger train operated by the Great Journeys New Zealand division of KiwiRail between Auckland and Wellington in the North Island of New Zealand, along the North Island Main Trunk (NIMT). Three services operate per week in each direction between Auckland's The Strand Station and Wellington railway station. Wikipedia

[traintrainingmontage]

Suddenly had the thought that Edward and Skarloey are old friends because they were both recruited as counterintelligence operatives for some division of British intelligence during WWII. Perhaps part of the reason why Edward is so gosh-darn perceptive is because during WWII, he was partly responsible for monitoring activities at Brendam Bay/the docks and ensuring no foreign spies made it to Sodor unreported. Skarloey, on the other hand, did similar work and kept an eye on the railway, but ESPECIALLY Kirk Ronan, with the slate shipments. They met up at Crovan's Gate whenever Edward took a special train or needed repairs (which was often, given his age and class), allowing for smooth exchange of information. And ofc, engines are great ways to ensure your communications get from place to place in a timely fashion.

Besides, who would ever think that two ancient engines would be employed as spies? They're just engines; what do they know?

[trainsinanime]

German street car lights

I researched this for my own reasons (that I may post about later), but I decided to put it here so I don't forget it.

Headlights. Taillights. We know how they work, we've all seen cars before. White in front, red in back, orange turn indicators, braking makes red extra bright. But for streetcars it's not always quite that simple, which makes modelling a challenge.

First of all, front: All cars and trucks and indeed all modern streetcars have two main headlights, side by side, roughly at the outer edges of the vehicle. Modern german streetcars actually have a third headlight up on top, legally required but barely visible. In this picture of a TW 6000 from Hanover (don't worry, the track curves away there, I was well clear of where the train could travel), it's the tiny little lamp above the destination display.

The idea is to make streetcars like big trains, which (in Germany, and for new trains in all of Europe) have three white lights in an upside-down V configuration in front (exceptions apply). The third light is supposed to make it clear that the thing hurtling towards you is a train. I'm not sure how well it works in this case.

But that is a fairly recent thing. For a really long time, well into the 1970s, the standard was a single central headlight. Consider this train in Vienna (note the pride flag, not relevant, just for fun):

This is a type E₂ train, first introduced in 1978, still in use today (though probably not for much longer, if you're in Vienna and you see one of them, take a picture).

Now, Austria isn't Germany, but the standards between the two countries weren't that wildly different. As far as I can tell there was no one time when dual headlights were introduced; some cities bought trains with two headlights, some with one, often at the same time. The E₂ here was sold with single headlights to Vienna, Braunschweig, Augsburg, Duisburg and a couple of others, but also with dual headlights to Düsseldorf.

In fact, there was even a dual headlight version for Vienna, but specifically only for the Wiener Lokalbahnen, a sort of interurban railway that used streetcar tracks at the Vienna end of its route. This seems to have been a common division of headlights: Single for the purely city routes, double for the longer-distance ones, until everyone standardised on double, eventually with the third headlight on top.

For added confusion, some cities, most notably Stuttgart and Hanover, used double headlights stacked on top of each other. I assume that's meant to count as one headlight, just doubled up in case one burns out.

A very rare specialty: Two headlights side by side but mounted centrally, seen in Frankfurt am Main and I don't think a lot of other places. It's not relevant, I just want to show it because it looks so silly.

Picture: TdVG Harthweg M+m.jpg, © MdE on Wikimedia Commons and Wikipedia-DE, License: CC-BY-SA 3.0 DE

Next, turn indicators. All trams have turn indicators on their sides, generally at window level, but within the window level it's anyone's guess. Some place them near the roof, some more near the middle or bottom of the windows, it seems to be whatever the operator prefers. Turn indicators at the front, near the headlights, are surprisingly not that common. Most single-headlight trams don't have them, the turn indicators on the side have to be enough.

However, the turn indicators are often found at the rear of the train, and that also puts them on the front of dual-direction vehicles (which many trams aren't). See this Frankfurt trailing car, which can only run at the end of the train:

Picture: H-Beiwagen Schwanheim 01052009.JPG, © Urmelbeauftragter on Wikimedia Commons and Wikipedia-DE, License: CC-BY-SA 3.0 unported

You see two red tail lights, and two orange blinker lights. And, in fact, on a dual-direction train from Frankfurt, you'll see the same lights on the front:

Picture: Peter Stehlik 2012.02.18 015a.jpg, © Peter Stehlik on Wikimedia Commons and Wikipedia-DE, License: CC-BY-SA 3.0 unported

But this wasn't always the case. Consider the SSB B2 trailing car from Stuttgart. It has neither motor nor cab, and must always appear at the end of a train. Despite this, it has a (single) headlight for some reason. Perhaps for when the train needs to back up? Below it is a single red tail light. The two other red things near the coupler are just reflectors.

Actually, is that a red tail light? I took that picture in 2013, so it's been a while, and it looks pretty orange, both here and in some historic pictures, e.g. this one from 1979:

Picture: Stuttgart-ssb-sl-2-bw-654287.jpg, © Kurt Rasmussen from bahnbilder.de, found on Wikipedia, licensed for any use as long as the author is credited

Colors on old photographs are a bit of a crap shoot, and in newer videos the B2s definitely have red tail lights, like here:

But in that video it also doesn't have a headlight, so who knows what rebuilds that one in the video has been through.

Of course, if it's a single orange light, that raises the question: What's that for? Orange tail lights? As far as I can tell, probably not. In fact, a combination that is surprisingly not that uncommon is a single red and a single orange tail light, e.g. here on a historic tram in Nuremberg.

That yellow/orange light is not the "backwards turn indicator". It's the brake light.

Yes, orange brake lights used to be a thing in Germany. For cars, they were phased out in the 1960s. I think historic cars are still allowed to have them, if you can find one. For streetcars, they were phased out a bit later.

Specifically, 2016.

Until then it was legal and very common to have yellow brake lights on trams, even some very modern ones. These are usually combined with the rear turn indicators: If they both light up steadily, the tram is braking, if they're blinking, the tram is about to turn. According to Wikipedia, if it's braking and turning, then one light will light steadily, the other will be blinking, similar to those red turn signals some cars in the US use.

Note, however, that "make the red tail light brighter" (or "turn it on") seems to have been absolutely legal as well, just not super popular. This video from 1974, the final year of the streetcar system in Aachen shows both types of brake lights in action:

At this point the streetcar network in that city was in terminal decline, and all the cars there were either second-hand or cheaply rebuilt 1950s stuff, so it makes sense that the lighting system was all over the place.

Final note because it didn't fit anywhere else: A single giant tail light, at least on trailer cars, doesn't seem to have ever been used in Germany, but it was not uncommon in Austria.

Picture: Wien-wvb-sl-5-c2-567109.jpg, © Kurt Rasmussen from bahnbilder.de, found on Wikipedia, licensed for any use as long as the author is credited

Other note: It seems that side turn indicators on trailer cars were optional at times. Weird.

So why do you need to know all of that? You don't. I never said you did. I did, however, because I'm currently modifying some trams for my model railroad with better lighting functions, and I wanted to know what the end result should be. The answer is, apparently, "do whatever you want", which is frankly very liberating.

I want to make it clear that this is not an expert or well researched piece. These are just the notes I made in my head while I was trying to figure this out. I almost certainly got things wrong, and I definitely missed some nuances. If you happen to know any, or can give more information on what it was like in your country, or you just feel like it, any comment/reblog with notes/anon hate is absolutely appreciated.

All pictures where no source is mentioned are © me. Use them under CC-BY-SA 3.0 if you want.

[darkmaga-returns]

The Iraqi government has shortlisted 11 shipping firms to compete for Baghdad’s Grand Faw Port project, the director general of the country’s General Company for Ports said on 12 November. 

The selected firms include China Merchants Port Group Co., Taiwanese container shipping firm Evergreen, French shipping conglomerate CMA CGM, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Indian firm Adani, and UAE-based ABM Global Shipping LLC, among others. 

Baghdad will select a winning company at the very start of next year, Director of the General Company for Ports Farhan al-Fartousi told Reuters.

“Faw Port is expected to operate in maximum capacity to receive 3.5 million containers in 2028,” he said. “The Grand Faw Port will be a pivotal hub for transforming global transport trade towards Europe via Turkey,” Fartousi added. 

Iraq launched the Development Road Project in May 2023, seeking to link the Grand Faw Port in the oil-rich south to Turkiye via railways and roads. The objective is to transform the war-torn country into a major regional transportation hub.

Baghdad plans to connect the Faw Port in the Basra governorate to Faysh Khabur on the Iraqi–Turkish border via the Development Road. The land corridor stretches 1,200 kilometers from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea. The project is worth around $17 billion. 

Turkiye’s transport minister announced earlier this year that projects encompassing the Development Road Project are “nearing completion.”

“While the Dry Canal and Grand Faw Port offer opportunities for Iraq to boost its geopolitical position, internal challenges such as mismanagement and political division, and external challenges such as investment competition between China and the US, present obstacles to success,” The Cradle columnist Mohammad Hassan Sweidan explained in January. 

[timekeepertwister]

Operation: Time Twister - Case 1: Compiled Control

🥖 Briefing: Support Division, this is your first major case as part of “Operation: Time Twister” and definitely not the last. Unlike the Orientation, which had a set narrative from beginning to end as it was in the past prior to the formation of this task force, you will have your chance to influence the story between posted Files. Likewise, this story will be a lot more complicated as turbulence from other temporal regions beyond Earthbread is to be expected. However, if collateral damage occurs, you will be held accountable for any expenses. Here are the immediate missions that are part of this Case:

Locate Croissant Cookie’s group consisting of her, Walnut Cookie, Almond Cookie, and Roguefort Cookie within the Past Dark Cacao Kingdom and return everyone back to their proper times

Track down the locations of Cinnamon Cookie, Wizard Cookie, and Cream Puff Cookie to return them to [12/24/2020 - PET-EB-C/W] safely

Retrieve loose fragments of the Blue Cheese Watch where possible

Follow up on newfound evidence regarding White Lily Cookie, Beast-Yeast, Lilywhite Space, and the Lilywhite Capital

Locate and retrieve any of White Lily Cookie’s Soulstones if possible

——————————————————————————————

🍓🍰 Disaster Response Division Memo: A new time rift has torn open in a far-eastern region of Outer Earthbread within the Primary Earthbread Timeline. Detected temporal signatures suggest that this rift was caused by loose parts of the Blue Cheese Watch, although more evidence is needed. Intelligence reports suggest that at least three people have fallen into this rift. Be on the lookout for these people who may not appear as Cookies and more likely to look like the Witch. We will be sending Strawberry Shortcake Cookie, the High Priestess of the Pomegranate Village, and a staff member of the railway transportation services of the World of Dreams to lead the detachment’s investigations, the latter of whom were commissioned as support. As such, here are the additional missions posed by the Disaster Response Division for your team:

Assist in the gathering of testimonies from local townspeople from the region

Identify any and all immediately misplaced individuals from this region

Locate misplaced individuals that have been sent to Earthbread after entering the time rift

Return all misplaced individuals to their respective region

Create a comprehensive report on how the time rift opened in the region

Stabilize the time rift before it causes additional damage within the region

Record all individuals involved on the Subject Roster

——————————————————————————————

Case Investigations

Investigation A: The Frost Miko Incidents (Active)

Investigation B: Misplaced Magicians

Investigation C: Y3 Intelligence

Ongoing Side Investigation: The Resolvers’ Incident - Courtesy of the Disaster Response Division. Their investigation’s progress will be listed within the individual investigations.

———————————————————————————————

Supervisory Memos

Timeguard Keepers are on standby for dispatch, and we plan to send three of them. Suggest via the ask box a parallel presence of someone whom you want to see from the canon lineup as a Keeper. Selections will happen behind the scenes regardless.

Support has been requested from forward field agents. It is now up to you to service these requests at your discretion. You as the Support Division can now partially influence the story by sending asks between Case Files according to incoming requests.

The pinned post has been updated to organize AU terminology and tags and to add a few more.

The Subject Roster, Space-Time Atlas, and Inquiry Master List are under development. Remaining Subject Records that have not been processed and made available to you during the Orientation will be processed after the publication of the Subject Roster.

Subject Roster - Under Development

Space-Time Atlas - Under Development

Inquiry Master List - Under Development

[bmspectra24]

Chai garam, chai garam, chai garam!

The Indian Railways system, established in 1853, is one of the largest and oldest railway networks in the world. Since its inception, it has played a critical role in connecting distant regions of the country, supporting both passenger and freight transportation. Initially built and operated by private companies under British colonial rule, the railways were later nationalized in 1951, bringing the entire network under the control of the Government of India. This shift was made to ensure the efficient expansion of rail infrastructure, uniformity in service delivery, and better integration of the system across the subcontinent. Since nationalization, Indian Railways has operated as a government monopoly, with centralized control and management through the Ministry of Railways and the Railway Board. This structure has allowed the government to prioritize public welfare, providing affordable transportation while facilitating economic development.

The centralized control system of Indian Railways enables uniform decision-making, centralized resource allocation, and coordinated operations across its various zones and divisions. All key decisions, from scheduling to budgeting, infrastructure development, and safety protocols, are managed by the central government. This structure ensures a standard level of service across the country, with the Railway Board responsible for policy formulation, regulatory compliance, and financial management. While this centralized system has ensured operational consistency and widespread accessibility, it has also led to challenges such as inefficiency, delays in modernization, and financial strains, given the vast scale of operations. These limitations have been a driving force behind discussions on potential privatization and decentralization, aiming to improve efficiency and foster competition within the sector.

Task at Hand: This centralized structure has ensured operational consistency but has also led to inefficiencies, delays, and limited innovation. Due to this reason, the Indian Government has decided to open the railways market and privatize the sector. With the privatization of the railway sector, there is now an opportunity for private companies to enter the market, creating competition that will hopefully drive better services, financial performance, and customer satisfaction. You are tasked with building a comprehensive plan for your railway company, addressing crucial aspects such as system design, financials, and marketing.

Deliverables:

1. Railway system design (network coverage, infrastructure, technology integration)

2. Initiation costs and financial projections (startup costs, revenue streams, expenses,

funding strategy)

3. Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and value proposition

4. Marketing strategies (target market analysis, branding, promotional tactics, pricing

strategy)

5. Operational plan (applying for government tenders, service offerings, scheduling, staffing)

6. Extra deliverables are welcome.

[townpostin]

Railway Service Resumes After Howrah-Mumbai Mail Accident

Track Repairs Completed, Operations Gradually Returning to Normal Rail operations resume post Howrah-Mumbai Mail accident near Potobeda. Damaged tracks repaired, undergoing safety tests. Trains initially running at reduced speeds for precautionary measures. JAMSHEDPUR – Railway authorities have successfully repaired the damaged tracks following the Howrah-Mumbai Mail train accident near Potobeda…

[6220coronation]

NWR Roster Headcanons: Thomas the Tank Engine

–

Alright, headcanon time. According to Wilbert Awdry, there are a total of 80 engines on the NWR network. But I decided to increase that number because why not? Quick disclaimer, the engine numbers are not necessarily reflective of the order in which they arrived. Anyway, this is going to start off a series of posts covering the engine roster. So first up is none other than the cheeky Number 1 himself, Thomas the Tank Engine.

–

Although Awdry never stated which E2 he is, early NWR records confirm his build date as June 1915. Shortly after being built, Thomas was requisitioned by the Railway Operating Division and sent off to Sodor to help finish construction of the North Western Railway.

–

When the Great War ended, it was originally planned to return him to the LBSC, but Brighton Works had already built a replacement 105 and thus sold Thomas to the NWR in 1920.

–

Despite having mellowed out somewhat since the early days, he still remains a fussy sort of engine. But Thomas is very proud of his branch line, and won’t let you forget that it’s the most important part of the railway.

–

And now for some Thomas trivia

–

Except for early in his life, during the 1940s, and the 2014 Centenary celebrations, Thomas has always been NWR Blue.

–

Despite having a well-known tendency to be jealous of other tank engines, there was one instance in 1985 when a tank engine was jealous of him. Thomas has little to say about this experience, but remains baffled by it to this very day.

–

In addition to Annie and Clarabel, Thomas also has a third coach. Her name is Bridget, and she’s best known for being the coach involved in the Missing Coach incident, much to her indignation.

–

Lastly, the Ffarquhar Branch Line definitely wasn’t proposed for closure in 1962 and Thomas definitely didn’t proceed to call Beeching several things that can’t be printed, or said on television.

–

Originally, I planned to include something about Thomas’ reaction to All Engines Go. But it didn’t really fit in my opinion, so I ultimately decided not to include it. Anyway, I’ll probably get Edward’s post out in the next couple days, so look forward to it.

[chemanufhout44]

Chemical Manufacturing Companies in Houston

The Role of Chemical Manufacturing Companies in Houston

Introduction

Houston, Texas, is a powerhouse in the world of energy and industrial production, with a particularly strong reputation in the chemical manufacturing sector. The city is often referred to as the "Energy Capital of the World," but it’s also a critical hub for chemical production, contributing significantly to the global supply chain. Chemical manufacturing companies in Houston are at the forefront of innovation, producing a wide range of chemicals that are essential for numerous industries, from healthcare and agriculture to electronics and automotive manufacturing. This article delves into the importance of these companies, the range of products they create, and their impact on both the local and global economy.

The Significance of Houston’s Chemical Manufacturing Industry

Houston’s strategic location near the Gulf of Mexico, coupled with its extensive infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for chemical manufacturing. The city is home to the largest petrochemical complex in the United States, and this has fostered a robust ecosystem of chemical manufacturing companies. These companies benefit from the proximity to raw materials, such as oil and natural gas, which are essential inputs for chemical production. Additionally, the city’s well-established logistics network, including ports, railways, and highways, facilitates the efficient distribution of chemical products both domestically and internationally.

The chemical manufacturing industry in Houston is not only a major contributor to the local economy but also plays a critical role in supporting other industries. The chemicals produced in Houston are used in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and countless other products that are integral to modern life. Without the chemicals manufactured in Houston, many industries would struggle to maintain their current levels of production and innovation.

Key Players in Houston's Chemical Manufacturing Sector

Several major companies dominate the chemical manufacturing landscape in Houston, each contributing to the industry’s strength and diversity. These companies range from multinational corporations to specialized firms that focus on niche markets.

Dow Chemical Company: One of the largest chemical manufacturers in the world, Dow has a significant presence in Houston. The company produces a vast array of chemicals, including plastics, performance materials, and agricultural products. Dow’s Houston operations are integral to its global supply chain, enabling the company to meet the demands of industries across the globe.

ExxonMobil Chemical: As a division of one of the largest oil companies in the world, ExxonMobil Chemical plays a crucial role in the production of petrochemicals. The company’s Houston facilities produce a wide range of products, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and other polymers that are used in packaging, automotive components, and consumer goods. ExxonMobil Chemical’s innovations in polymer technology have helped drive advancements in material science, contributing to the development of lighter, stronger, and more sustainable products.

LyondellBasell: This company is one of the largest plastics, chemicals, and refining companies in the world. With its headquarters in Houston, LyondellBasell is a key player in the production of polypropylene, polyethylene, and advanced polymers. The company’s products are used in a variety of applications, from packaging and textiles to automotive parts and medical devices. LyondellBasell is also a leader in sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting circular economy practices.

BASF Corporation: A subsidiary of the German chemical giant BASF SE, BASF Corporation operates several facilities in the Houston area. The company produces a wide range of chemicals, including those used in agriculture, automotive, and construction industries. BASF is known for its commitment to innovation, investing heavily in research and development to create new and improved chemical products that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

The Impact of Chemical Manufacturing on the Local Economy

The chemical manufacturing industry is a major driver of economic activity in Houston. The sector provides thousands of high-paying jobs, ranging from engineers and chemists to skilled laborers and logistics professionals. These jobs not only support the livelihoods of those directly employed by chemical manufacturing companies but also create a ripple effect throughout the local economy. For example, the presence of a strong chemical manufacturing sector attracts other businesses, such as suppliers, contractors, and service providers, further boosting economic growth in the region.

In addition to job creation, chemical manufacturing companies in Houston contribute significantly to the city’s tax base. The revenue generated from these taxes helps fund essential public services, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the industry’s emphasis on innovation and sustainability has led to the development of new technologies and processes that have the potential to reduce environmental impact and improve efficiency across various sectors.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While the chemical manufacturing industry in Houston is vital to the economy, it also presents challenges, particularly in terms of environmental impact and safety. The production of chemicals involves the use of hazardous materials, and if not properly managed, these materials can pose risks to both human health and the environment.

To address these concerns, chemical manufacturing companies in Houston are subject to stringent regulations enforced by federal and state agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). These regulations govern everything from emissions and waste disposal to workplace safety standards. Companies are required to implement comprehensive safety and environmental management systems to minimize risks and ensure compliance with these regulations.

Many chemical manufacturers in Houston have gone beyond regulatory requirements, adopting best practices in sustainability and safety. For instance, companies like LyondellBasell and BASF have implemented programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize waste, and promote the use of renewable energy sources. These initiatives not only help protect the environment but also enhance the companies’ reputations and appeal to customers who prioritize sustainability.

The Future of Chemical Manufacturing in Houston

The chemical manufacturing industry in Houston is poised for continued growth, driven by advancements in technology, increasing demand for chemicals, and the city’s strategic advantages. However, the industry will also need to navigate challenges related to environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and global competition.

One of the key trends shaping the future of chemical manufacturing in Houston is the shift towards sustainability. As consumers and businesses become more environmentally conscious, there is increasing pressure on chemical manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprints and adopt more sustainable practices. This shift is likely to drive innovation in areas such as green chemistry, renewable feedstocks, and circular economy models.

Another important trend is the growing role of digitalization in chemical manufacturing. Companies are increasingly using digital technologies, such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation, to improve efficiency, optimize production processes, and enhance safety. These technologies have the potential to transform the industry, enabling companies to operate more sustainably and respond more quickly to changing market demands.

Conclusion

Chemical manufacturing companies in Houston play a critical role in the global supply chain, producing essential chemicals that support a wide range of industries. The city’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and access to raw materials make it an ideal hub for chemical production. As the industry continues to evolve, driven by trends in sustainability and digitalization, Houston’s chemical manufacturers will be at the forefront of innovation, contributing to economic growth and helping to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In conclusion, the chemical manufacturing industry in Houston is a vital part of the city’s economy and a key player on the global stage. By continuing to prioritize innovation, sustainability, and safety, these companies will not only maintain their competitive edge but also contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

[sodastupidity]

Tumblr has been created wooo, so imma just start posting my OCs

Joseph Churchward

Basis: GWR 4300 No.5319

Bio: Built in 1917 for the GWR, Joseph (along with several of his siblings) was sent over to France as part of the Railway Operating Division. There he met Alastair, his best buddy, and Betty, an engine he fancies. Joseph worked in the Western Region all the way until his withdrawal in 1959, when he was purchased by the ORS

Joseph has a tendency to be a bit cheeky at times, but is strong-willed, and it takes a lot to break him. He is quick-witted and takes action swiftly without hesitation. He’s always ready to stand up for the smaller guys (especially Betty), and is willing to set aside his own safety for the sake of others.

He does sometimes have a bit of a short temper, but he is also smart enough to listen to the advice of the older, more experienced engines. He can also be seen as a big brother to smaller and younger engines like Jordy and Jami

[zay-does-things]

Gentlemen, I love war.

Gentlemen, I… love war.

Gentlemen. I… SO LOVE WAR.

I love holocaust.

I love blitzkrieg.

I love onslaught.

I love defensive.

I love besiegement.

I love breakthrough.

I love retreat.

I love mop-up.

I love withdrawal.

On the plains, In the streets, In the trenches, On the prairies, On the tundra, In the desert, On the sea, In the sky, In the mud, In the swamp. I cherish each and every way war can be waged on this earth.

I love the thunderous roar of all artillery arrayed at the battle line firing at once, as it blows away the enemy line. My heart dances when the bodies of enemy troops are hurled into the air in pieces from a direct hit.

I love it when a tiger tank smashes an enemy tank with its 88mm cannon. It left a warm feeling in my chest when the enemy soldiers would jump screaming from the blazing tank, only to be mowed down by machine gun fire.

I love it when the infantry ranks overrun the enemy line, bayonets first. It moves me when I remember the sight of a new recruit in a state of panic, stabbing an already dead enemy soldier over and over.

I can hardly contain myself, thinking of hanging the defeatist deserters from streetlights. And it is superb when the enemy prisoners screams in time… With the shriek escaping from the Schmeisser I hold as I mow him down.

I even remember distinctly the 4.8 ton shrapnel shells from the Dora (80cm Railway Canon) pulverizing whole city blocks. Where the pitiful resistance fighters heroically stood up against us with their assorted small arms.

I love the Russkie armoured divisions thrown into disorder. It is very very sad thing when the villages they should have protected to the death are overrun and the women and children are violated and killed.

I love the English and American war machines being crushed and annihilated. Their creeping about on the ground like vermin, chased by the Jabo, is the height of humiliation.

Gentlemen. I wish to see a war worthy of one in hell itself.

Gentlemen, my battalion of comrades who follow me… Pray tell, what do you wish for?

Do you wish for a war as a matter of course?

Do you wish for a merciless, shitlike war?

Do you wish for a storm like conflict which runs the gamut of blowing steel and striking flame, killing every crow in the entire world?

(The soldiers begin shouting/chanting "Krieg" meaning "War")

Very well. Then let it be Krieg.

All our strength is held in a clenched fist, poised to strike. But for we who have continued to endure a whole half a century in the depths of these dark shadows… A simple war is NO LONGER ENOUGH!!

A GREAT WAR!! ONE BORN OF OUR SINGLE-HEARTED DEVOTION!! We are merely one battalion, no more than a thousand troop remnants. But I believe that you are all matchless hardened veterans.

So gentlemen, together we are an army as powerful as a million regular soldiers.

Let us rouse those slumbering ones who drove us into the realm of forgetfulness. Let us seize them by their hair, drag them down, open their eyes, and make them remember.

We shall make them remember the taste of terror. We shall make them remember the sound of our war boots.

We shall remind them that something in the interval between heaven and earth they don't even recall with their philosophy does indeed exist.

The Krampf Gruppe of a thousand vampires… Will burn the world to a crisp.

Commence preparation for Operation Sea Lion 2.

Let's go. Gentlemen.