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irst the historic train: Each of the (in all) eight carriages had
three or four axles, and all carriages had a spindle rod and
compressed air and vacuum brakes. Every care was taken
to remain as true as possible to the original train technology while
taking advantage of state-of-the-art innovations.
The carriages were built in such a way that the imperial
train could ride on all regular European train tracks. Much of
the interior was made from oak wood; the walls, from double
timber boarding, were insulated against sound and cold with
impregnated paper refuse. The floors were also triple-paneled
and covered with cork. The roof was made of wood but was
covered with iron and copper sheets. Lead plates and thick felt
carpets protected against cold and turbulence, and the windows
were double-glazed. Curtains or blinds could be used to block
the light (or the gaze of curious onlookers). The cabins used
steam heating, and fresh cool air could enter the carriage through
ventilator vents. The interior, as already mentioned, was of such
splendor that it was easy to forget the awesome technology
hidden behind it. Even though this train represented the latest
machinery of the time, it was important to balance technological
refinement with exquisite elegance and utmost comfort to serve
the aristocratic clientele.
F
A Comparison of
TECHNOLOGIES