Description
The use of blimps by the US Navy and Air Corps began prominently during World War I. At that time, these airships were filled with hydrogen, a flammable gas that was easily extractable. This ultimately led to the adoption of helium, which was sourced from gas fields in Texas, Oklahoma, and Southern Kansas. Helium tank cars could be seen across the country, including states like California, Massachusetts, Florida, and New Jersey.
American Car & Foundry (ACF) produced the fourth, fifth, and seventh generations of helium cars, building a total of 120 cars between February 1955 and September 1961. Each of these 100-ton cars contained 30 individual high-pressure tanks, which could be filled and emptied from the end cabinets.American Car & Foundry (ACF) produced the fourth, fifth, and seventh generations of helium cars, building a total of 120 cars between February 1955 and September 1961. Each of these 100-ton cars contained 30 individual high-pressure tanks, which could be filled and emptied from the end cabinets.
Remarkably, a single car could fill more than two L Class blimps. That’s A LOT of gas! During the infamous space race, NASA regularly utilized these cars. Although after 1969 the demand for them diminished, these cars would still be utilized for at least another 30+ years in regular service!Remarkably, a single car could fill more than two L Class blimps. That’s A LOT of gas! During the infamous space race, NASA regularly utilized these cars. Although after 1969 the demand for them diminished, these cars would still be utilized for at least another 30+ years in regular service!
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