Engineering Wonders of the World
Volume I

BUILDING OF THE TRAIN-FERRY “ BAIKAL." 67 lines of rails, running into one at the for- ward end, and terminating against buffers at the after end. These Accommoda- raßs afford accommodation Hon for f twenty-five cars. The space above the centre rails extends right up to the promenade deck, which was specially arranged so as to allow for the carrying of imperial saloon carriages. The cars are run on to the carriage deck over a hinged platform connected to the shore, and secured by means of special appliances, so as to ensure their steadiness while the vessel is in motion. The superstructure, inside which the carriages are housed, covers the vessel for her full length. It is a massive erection, with a strong framework of steel girders and supports. (Fig. 1 gives a good idea of the extent of this structure.) At the forward end, or train entrance, are large folding-doors, which are closed in bad weather, thus adding greatly to the com- “ FREEZING-OUT.” (#/</. 3.) fort of those on board, especially during the Accommoda- tion for Passengers. winter crossings. Ample ac- commodation and every crea- ture comfort is provided for first, second, and third class passengers on the deck above, including luxuri- ously furnished saloons and staterooms, baths, lavatories, and all conveniences that are to be found on a first-class passenger steamer. The vessel is lighted throughout by electricity and heated by steam, no expense having been spared in providing for the comfort of all classes. There are also a private saloon and private staterooms, with up-to-date baths and lavatories. These are specially reserved for the use of any high official who may be cross- ing the lake. The arrangement of the propelling machinery is one of the notable features of the vessel, which is propelled by three powerful engines of the inverted triple-expansion surface-con- Engines and Propellers. densing type, with all the working parts in duplicate. Two of these engines are placed aft, and one forward. Ths forward screw, by disturbing the water, deprives the ice of its support, and thus enables the crushing weight of the vessel to force a way more easily through the solid field ice, the form of the vessel being specially designed for this purpose. The propellers are of cast steel, and of exceptionally strong construc- tion, the forward one being well housed and protected under an overhanging stem, which enables it to do its work without coming into direct contact with the broken ice. Steam is supplied by fifteen single-ended boilers, work- ing at a pressure of 160 lbs. to the square inch. This short description of the ice-breaker and her capabilities will give the reader some idea of the magnitude of the task to be accom-