Glossary

Welcome to scot-rail.co.uk, Scotland's online railway community. The group is for any rail enthusiast interested in the railways and trains of Scotland. It not only consists of the wiki that you're reading now, but a busy online forum and mailing list, which was accessible to registered users. From April 2024 the forum has closed, with a replacement started on Groups.io.

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This page gives definitions to terms and abbreviations which are regularly used on the Scot-rail internet group.

All passenger stations on the GB National Rail network have an official 3-letter code. Some of the commonly used destinations are shown in this list '(station code)', others can be found on the <NRE website>.

Wagon types are are identified by 3 letter 'TOPS' codes, mostly ending with 'A'. Common types are listed here, but photos can be found on the <UKRailRollingstock> website.

Links to other more comprehensive lists of terms, acronyms and codes can be found at the bottom of this page.

Requests for additions to this glossary can be sent to the wiki editors.

 
Numbers
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
10A Carnforth MPD, home of WCRC (steam era shed code)
225 class 91 and Mk4 carriages
25kV AC 25,000 volts, alternating current. The nominal voltage of the overhead electrification system.
5MT class of Mixed Traffic steam locomotive, built by LMS (Black 5) or BR
66A Polmadie Depot (shed code 1948-1973)
89500 number on TOPS for preserved diesel loco D9000 / 55022. <Other 89XXX locos>.
98642 number on TOPS for preserved steam loco 3442 / 61994. <Other 98XXX locos>.
 
A
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A2B Airdrie to Bathgate reopening project
A2CB Aberdeen to Central Belt Enhancement Project
A2I Aberdeen to Inverness
A4 class of steam locomotive built by LNER, (more…)
AAR Association of American Railroads
ABD Aberdeen (station code)
ABS Air Brake System service (wagonload freight train, later known as Speedlink)
Absolute Block traditional form of signalling between signal boxes, with bells and block instruments
ABZ Aberdeen (airport code!)
ACE Area Civil Engineer (BR era)
Across the top the Aberdeen - Inverness line
AFAIK As far as I know
AFBCL Automatic Full Barrier Crossing Locally Monitored (with obstacle detection. More on wikipedia).
AFM Automatic Finishing Machine. A large OTM which does Ballast Regulation, and Dynamic Track Stabilising.
AFT Assist Failed Train. The AFT cock fitted to certain locomotives, enables them to take air-supply from the brake pipe. This is a requirement when 'Dead on Rear' of a single-piped freight train.
AHBC Automatic Half Barrier level crossing. (More on wikipedia).
AIUI As I understand it
Alphaline a brand name once used for regional express trains in Wales and western England
ALR All Lines Rover, a ticket valid on the whole of the National Rail network.
AOCL Automatic Open level crossing (Locally monitored, by the train drivers). (More on wikipedia).
AP Advance Purchase. Ticket for a specific train.
APCO Automatic Power Change Over
ASDO Automatic Selective Door Opening, system used on modern trains for stopping at short platforms.
ASR Abellio ScotRail (2015-2022)
ASTT All System Timetable, the Great Britain Passenger Timetable.
ATE Assistant Ticket Examiner
ATM At the moment
ATOC Association of Train Operating Companies
ATW Arriva Trains Wales
Avantix portable ticket issuing machines.
Autohopper Auto ballaster, bogied hopper wagon. Ballast is unloaded by remote control. Code HQA or JJA.
AWS Automatic Warning System. Magnets on the track approaching signals to alert train drivers. <more on wikipedia>
Axle counter method of train detection as alternative to Track Circuit
AXA Generator Coach (ETS)
AY Ayr (depot code)
AZA Test Train vehicle (ex Passenger coach)
Azuma Brand name for the LNER class 800 & 801 trains.
 
B
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
B1 class of steam locomotive built by LNER
B&KR Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway
Banner Repeater a type of signal, black bar on a white disc, which is provided where the driver's view of a stop signal may be obscured.
Barbie unofficial name for First Group's livery of blue with white and magenta stripes
Barriers vehicles attached to either end of rolling stock being moved to and from Works, often due to incompatible couplings.
Bart DBS loco 92017 'Bart the Engine' in Stobart livery
Basher enthusiast who travels on trains for the haulage and/or to cover new track.
BB Balfour Beatty Rail
BBA Bogie flat wagon for steel products.
BBMF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, commemorated in the special livery on loco 91110.
BBTR Boring Boxes Today, Roy. The load of an intermodal train. (more).
BCK Brake Composite Corridor carriage (with First and Second class compartments)
BCR Benefit-Cost Ratio, a value for money indicator used in cost-benefit analysis. <more on wikipedia>
BDTS Battery Driving Trailer Second class. EMU vehicle.
Bedzz overnight Sleeper trains, Caledonian Sleepers
BEMU Battery Electric Multiple Unit train. Some types can operate as EMU under OLE.
BESR Blanket Emergency Speed Restriction. Imposed due to severe weather.
BFK Brake First class Corridor carriage (with compartments)
BG Brake, Gangwayed. Carriage with Guard's van, but no passenger accommodation.
BICBW But I could be wrong
Bins train conveying containers of refuse from Powderhall
Black 5 Class of Steam locomotive built by LMS, (more…)
Blue star Multiple working system fitted to many 1960s built diesel locos.
Blue Trains Class 303 EMUs (blue when new, but for their last 15 years they were mostly orange).
Bluebirds Nickname for GBRf? operated class 66 locos.
BLS Branch Line Society
BN Bounds Green Depot in London, home to Class 91 fleet.
Bobby Signalman
Bodysnatcher nickname for class 57 locos
BONESSRPS TOPS location code for the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway. Used as a timing point it refers to the Exchange siding at Manuel.
Booth's a scrap metal company in Rotherham.
BR Babcock Rail (Formerly First Engineering Limited)
BR British Railways (1948-1997)
BRCW Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon. Builders of class 26, 27, 33 locos and class 104 DMUs.
Brush Engineering company based in Loughborough, now part of Wabtec
BSC British Steel Corporation (now Tata Steel). <Wikipedia>.
BSI type of automatic coupling used on Class 142-170 DMUs (original manufacturer's name).
BSK Brake Second class Corridor carriage (with compartments)
BSO Brake Second/Standard class Open carriage
BSO(T) BSO carriage, with Miniature Buffet (a counter and trolley storage space).
BT Bo'ness SRPS (depot code)
BTA Bogie wagon for carrying pipes
BTP British Transport Police
BTW By the way
Buckeye Knuckle coupling. Usually refers to the type used on coaching stock
BUO Brake Unclassified Open, the type of Mk2 carriage with seating used on the Caledonian Sleepers
Burma Road alternative name for the 'Up Through Terminus' line which dives under the main lines near Shields Junction, Glasgow.
BWK Berwick-upon-Tweed (station code)
 
C
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
C3 heavy overhaul on carriages and EMUs, combining C4 cand C6 work.
C4 overhaul of wheels, bogies, brakes and couplings. Carriages and multiple Units.
C5 Main Works repairs, outside the usual overhaul sequence.
C6 overhaul of carriage body, including doors and interior repairs. May include a repaint.
C6X C6 overhaul with extra work, perhaps interior enhancements.
C&O Callander and Oban Railway. The section east of Crianlarich closed in 1965.
CAF Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles. Spanish train builder.
Caledonian Express proposed fast service between Glasgow Central and Edinburgh via Shotts (implemented in December 2009).
Caley Caledonian Railway (1847-1923)
CAN Cancelled
Cans nickname for class 86 electric locomotives
Caped cancelled, from the telegraph code word CAPE
CAR Carlisle (station code)
Catch Points points installed on a running line to derail vehicles running away on a steep gradient. Now obsolete. See also Trap points.
CCE Chief Civil Engineer (BR era)
CDL Central Door Locking. Fitted to slam-door carriages.
CDR Cheap Day Return. Now known as Off-Peak Day Return.
CDU Cab Display Unit, for use with RETB signalling.
Cess shallow drainage ditch beside the running lines
CET Controlled Emission Toilet (train fitted with retention tanks)
CGU City of Glasgow Union Railway. (see City Union)
Chain a distance of 22 yards, 80 chains to a mile.
Charter Trains that are run on behalf of private parties, eg football or enthusiast specials.
Chopper nickname for class 20 locos
CILT The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
The Circuit the Edinburgh - Dundee loco hauled workings in the 1980s
CIS Customer Information System (on a station)
City Union line across Glasgow, from Shields Junction to High Street. Not used by passenger services.
CK Corkerhill (depot code)
CK Composite Corridor carriage (with First and Second class compartments)
Clamplock hydraulic point operating equipment, identifiable by the small yellow boxes on the outside of either stock rail.
CNF Carnforth (station code)
Coalfish 2-axle low-sided wagon for ballast/spoil, code MHA/MPA (MFA and MTA are similar).
CofU Centre of Universe, thought by some to be Larbert.
Conductor Person carrying out the duties of a guard on a passenger train.
Control Operations Control Office
Cop first spotting of something
COSS Controller of Site Safety
CP4 ORR Control Period for Network Rail: April 2009 to 2014.
CP5 ORR Control Period for Network Rail: April 2014 to 2019.
CP6 ORR Control Period for Network Rail: April 2019 to 2024.
CPO Compulsory Purchase Order (of a property)
Craigy Craigentinny Depot, Edinburgh
Crompton nickname for class 33 locos
CRP Community Rail Partnership
CS Caledonian Sleeper
CSD Carriage Servicing Depot
CSO Continued Service Operation (rolling stock life extension)
CSR Cab Secure Radio, Driver - Signaller system used on DOO passenger trains, before GSM-R.
CTM Conductor Team Manager
CUB Cumbernauld (station code)
CWR Continuous Welded Rail
 
D
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
DAS Driver Advisory System. A cab-mounted computer advising drivers of the optimum speed to achieve the timetable using minimum energy.
DB Deutche Bahn, German national railway company, <more on wikipedia>
DBC DB Cargo (was "DB Schenker Rail" until March 2016)
DBL Dunblane (station code)
DBS DB Schenker Rail UK, (formerly EWS, until January 2009), freight train operator.
DBSO Driving Brake Second Open. A type of Mk2 carriage, now used in test trains.
DCO Driver Controlled Operation - the same as DOO
DCR Devon & Cornwall Railways. Operate rolling stock movements to/from Works.
DEE Dundee (station code)
Delner A type of automatic coupling used on EMUs. (manufacturer's name)
Deltic Class 55 diesel locomotive
Demic failed train, or unserviceable rolling stock.
Departmental train for maintenance of the railway.
Desiro range of EMU and DMU trains built by Siemens, including the class 185 and class 380.
DfT Department for Transport (in England)
DGL Down Goods Loop
DHS Down Holding sidings
Diagram a sequence of planned train workings
Distant Signal a signal (not a stop signal) capable of displaying a cautionary aspect, usually on the approach to a stop signal.
DIT Dead in train, a locomotive not powered
DKS Door Key Switch. For use with train door controls.
DMBS Driving Motor Brake Standard class. First generation DMU vehicle.
DMC Drumchapel (station code)
DMCL Driving Motor Composite (first and standard class) with Lavatory. DMU vehicle.
DMOCL(W) Driving Motor Open Composite, with Lavatory (Wheelchair accessible). DMU vehicle.
DMOS Driving Motor Open Standard class (sometimes with A or B suffix). DMU/EMU vehicle.
DMSL Driving Motor Standard class with Lavatory (sometimes with A or B suffix). DMU vehicle.
DMU Diesel Multiple Unit, a train with a diesel engine under the floor.
DOL Door Obstruction Light, orange light on bodyside of carriage. On MU trains it also indicates other faults.
DOO Driver Only Operation (trains not requiring a guard).
DOR Dead on rear, a locomotive not powered
DOR Directly Operated Railways. Holding company for TOCs (e.g. East Coast) temporarily brought in to public ownership. <Wikipedia>.
Down the direction away from London (but there are some exceptions to this rule).
DPL Down Passenger Loop
Dr Yellow nickname for the NMT test train
Drag An electric train being hauled by a diesel loco
Dred nickname for DRS class 66 locos.
DRS Direct Rail Services, freight train operator.
DRS Down Refuge Siding
DSD Driver's Safety Device. Ensures a train driver is in position and alert. Usually a foot pedal.
DSM Duty Station Manager or Driver Standards Manager
DTM Driver Team Manager
DTS Driving Trailer Standard class (sometimes with A or B suffix). EMU vehicle.
Duff nickname for class 47 locos. Often offends followers of this class.
DUN Dunbar (station code)
Dutch livery of grey with yellow upper-bodysides. Applied to BR Civil Engineer's loco fleet in the 1990s.
DVT Driving Van Trailer, see MK3 DVT Push-Pull
Dyson nickname for class 92 electric locomotives.
 
E
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
E+C Engine and Carriage. Steam loco and support coach
E&G Edinburgh and Glasgow line (via Falkirk)
E&P Electrification and Plant (department responsible for OLE)
EARL Edinburgh Airport Rail Link project, a plan to tunnel under the airport. Cancelled in 2007.
EAS Engineering Access Statement (formerly RotR), <Network Rail document>.
eb Eastbound
EBS Emergency Bypass Switch, isolates emergency brakes on a DMU/EMU.
EC Craigentinny Maintenance Depot, Edinburgh (depot code)
EC East Coast, Train operator, (from Dec 2009)
ECML East Coast Main Line, Edinburgh to the south via Berwick Upon Tweed
ECO Electrical Control Operator (at the ECR)
ECR Electrical Control Room, for electric traction supply. Cathcart ECR covers Scotland, the ECML to Chathill and the WCML to Penrith.
ECR Euro Cargo Rail. French based subsidiary of EWS (now DB Schenker Rail).
ECS Empty Coaching Stock
ED Eastfield (depot code)
EDB Edinburgh Waverley (station code)
Eddie DRS loco 66411 'Eddie the Engine' in Stobart livery
EDI Edinburgh
EE English Electric. Builders of locos including Class 20, 37, 40, 50 and 55.
EFA Edinburgh - Fife - Aberdeen (timetable recast for December 2008)
EGIP Edinburgh to Glasgow Improvements Package
EGS E.G. Steele & Co. Wagon maintenance company based in Hamilton
EH Electric Heating, an ETS equipped loco, e.g class 37/4
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EK East Kilbride
ELR Engineer's Line Reference. A three letter code (sometimes with a numerical suffix) which identifies a route or section of route. <More info here>.
ELR East Lancashire Railway. Base for several preserved locomotives.
EMR European Metal Recycling Ltd.
EMT East Midlands Trains, operated by Stagecoach
EMU Electric Multiple Unit, a train with electric traction equipment under the floor.
eNRT electronic National Rail Timetable
Enterprise Wagonload freight service conveying a mix of commodities.
EPA Test Train vehicle (ex Gatwick Express Mk2 stock)
EPS Enhanced Permissible Speed. Higher than normal line speed, for trains fitted with TASS.
ERTMS European Railway Traffic Managment System <more on wikipedia>
ES Engineering Supervisor (for a worksite).
ESR Emergency Speed Restriction
ESW Emergency Special Working. Arrangments to allow trains to pass through an area with failed signalling equipment.
ETA Expected Time of Arrival
ETD Electric Traction Depot
ETH Electric Train Heating (power supply for coaching stock)
ETHEL Electric Train Heating Ex Locomotive. Former class 25s used as mobile generators.
ETS Electric Train Supply, from loco to carriages (alternative term for ETH).
Euroshed Class 66 locos that have been used in France by ECR
EW Edinburgh Waverley
EWD Every Weekday. A train running Monday to Saturday.
EWS English Welsh and Scottish Railways, freight train operator. Now called DB Schenker.
Exam Scheduled rolling stock maintenance
EZA Ultrasonic Test Unit vehicle (ex EMU Mk1 stock)
 
F
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Falcon low sided bogie wagons, for ballast and spoil. Yellow. Code JNA (IEA & MLA are similar).
FB Facebook
Feather a junction indicator on a colour light signal. A row of white lights lit when a slower speed diverging route is set.
FEL First Engineering Limited (now Babcock Rail)
FFG Freight Facilities Grant <See TS info>
FFPS Fiddler's Ferry Power Station, near Warrington.
FGW First Great Western, train operator in southern England.
FHH Freightliner Heavy Haul. Also FLHH.
FKG Falkirk Grahamston (station code)
FLIM Freightliner Intermodal.
FLT Freightliner Terminal (intermodal)
FM online Freight Master online <http://freightmaster.net/>
FNA 2-axle flask carrying wagon.
FNL Far North Line (Inverness to Wick & Thurso)
FO First class Open carriage
FOC Freight Operating Company
FOI Freedom of Information. The right to ask a public body for any information they hold. <more...>
Footex charter train for football supporters. Originally a telegraph code word.
Fort Bill Fort William
Four-foot area between the two running rails of any one railway track.
FPL Facing Point Lock. Required for passenger movements over a diverging set of points.
FRC Forth Replacement Crossing, a new Forth Road Bridge
Fred nickname for Freightliner class 66 locos.
Froth to get over excited about a particular train/working
FSR First ScotRail (2004-2015)
FTN Fixed Telecoms Network
FTPE First Transpennine Express
FTR Fitness to Run (examination)
FTR For the record
FTW Fort William (station code)
Fugly nickname for Freightliner's class 70 locomotives
FW Fort William
FWIW For what its worth
 
G
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
GARL Glasgow Airport Rail Link project
Gauge usually refers to Loading gauge, the maximum height and width of a rail vehicle, with respect to the infrastructure.
GB&K Glasgow Barrhead and Kilmarnock line
GB IV The Great Britain (4th Year). A Steam-hauled railtour run over several days in April.
GBTT Great Britain Passenger Timetable (or GBPTT).
GC Grand Central, open access operator on ECML in England
Gemini Computer system for managing passenger rolling stock. (more...)
Gen information on a current or future train working
GENIUS Computer system for managing passenger rolling stock. (more...)
GF Ground Frame, set of points on a running line, not directly controlled by signal box.
Gimp GNU Image Manipulation Program. <http://www.gimp.org/>
GLASRENVC Glasgow Works, Railcare at Springburn
GLC Glasgow Central (station code)
GLQ Glasgow Queen Street (station code)
GLT Glenrothes With Thornton (station code)
GM General Motors, builders of class 66, and engines in class 57 and 67 locos.
GM Grangemouth (old depot code)
GNER Great North Eastern Railway (1996-2007)
GNSR Great North of Scotland Railway (1846-1923) <Wikipedia>
Gotcha brand name for a Wheel Impact Load Detector. Replaces Wheelchex
Goyle nickname for class 31 locomotive
GPLS Ground Position Light Signal, used for shunting, and permissive working.
GQS Glasgow Queen Street
Grid nickname for class 56 locomotives
Gripper Ticket inspector
Gronk nickname for class 08 shunting locomotives
Growler nickname for class 37 locomotives
GSM-R Global System for Mobile communications - Railway. A replacement for existing radio systems. <more on Wikipedia>
GSP Ground Switch Panel, like a GF, but with buttons instead of levers.
GSW Glasgow and South Western, usually refers to Kilmarnock - Dumfries - Carlisle route
GUV General Utillity Van. Bogied vehicle used for mail, parcels and Motor-rail.
GW Shields ETD, Glasgow (depot code)
 
H
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
H&S Health and Safety.
HA Haymarket (depot code)
HAA 2-axle coal hopper wagon traditionally used on MGR trains. Similar types include HCA, HMA.
HABD Hot Axle Box Detector
HC Hawkear Central, Morningside on the Edinburgh suburban line.
HC The Highland Chieftain, HST service between Inverness and London King's Cross running since May 1984.
Headcode 4-character train reporting number. See Headcodes explained
Headcode box panel on the front of 1960s built locomotives. Later modified to show two white dots.
HHA Bogied coal hopper wagon used by Freightliner Heavy Haul
HIA Bogied hopper wagon (coal or stone) used by Freightliner Heavy Haul. White or Green.
HL High Level
HLOS High Level Output Specification - set by the government
HMI Human - Machine Interface
HML Highland Main Line. Perth - Inverness
HMRI Her Majesty's Railway Inspectorate
HMU Hydrogen Multiple Unit train, to replace DMUs
HNRC Harry Needle Railroad Company. Private locomotive owner, based at Barrow Hill. <more on wikipedia>
HOBC High Output Ballast Cleaner train
Home Signal the first signal on the approach to a Signal box, at the end of an Absolute Block section.
Hoover nickname for Class 50 locomotives
Hot Box An overheated axle box.
HPSA High Performance Switch Actuator. The electric point machine in a HPSS installation.
HPSS High Performance Switch System, introduced to Scotland in 2005. Identifiable by large yellow equipment covers between the rails in sets of points.
HQA Auto ballaster, bogied hopper wagon (some are coded JJA)
HRT Hertfordshire Railtours (1978-2008)
HRTI High Risk Technical Incident
HS2 New High-Speed Railway being built London - Birmingham - Crewe.
HST High Speed Train, with class 43 diesel power cars at each end.
HTA Bogied coal hopper wagon used by EWS/DBS.
HTH Hope this helps
HTML Hyper Text Mark-up Language. Formatting tags in web pages.
Hull Trains previous operator of the four class 170 units with buffet counters
HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
HW series electric point machines manufactured by Alstom (formerly GEC)
HXA Bogied coal hopper wagon used by Freightliner Heavy Haul
 
I
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
IBS Intermediate Block Section (between signal boxes with AB system)
IC225 class 91 and Mk4 carriages
ICA bogied tank wagon, often with dipped centre.
ICEC InterCity East Coast
IECC Integrated Electronic Control Centre. A large signalling centre with computer workstations.
IEP Intercity Express Programme. DfT specification for a new Intercity train, Class 800
IFA various kinds of flat wagons, includes tilting deck S&C carriers (7093780XXX series)
IIRC If I remember correctly ...
IKA Megafret, twin-unit low-floor intermodal flats from Swiss leasing company AAE
IMHO In my humble/honest opinion
IMX In my experience
Indian Ears a common misspelling of "Engineers". Perhaps a NDS train.
INR Inverurie (station code)
INV Inverness (station code)
IPA car transporter wagon
Iris II DMU test train, used mostly for radio survey work. Retired in 2007.
IRJ Insulated Rail Joint, at the end of a track circuit. Sometimes called IBJ (block joint).
IS Inverness (depot code)
ISP Independent Snow Plough, for clearing drifts. The kind propelled by locos.
ISTR I seem to recall ...
ITPS Integrated Train Planning System. Used by Network Rail from May 2010 TT.
ITYM I think you mean ...
IZA 2-axle vans, permanently coupled in pairs.
 
J
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
James DRS 66414 or DBS 66048 'James the Engine' in Stobart livery
JJA Auto ballaster, bogied hopper wagon (some are coded HQA)
JNA bogied open wagon. Some are 'Falcon' type for ballast.
JPA bogied presflow cement wagon
Juniper name for class 334 EMUs, and other EMUs built by Alstom
JZA bogied Long-Welded Rail wagon
 
K
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
K1 class of LNER steam locomotive.
K4 class of LNER steam locomotive. (more..)
Kettle steam locomotive
KGX London Kings Cross (station code)
Kinematic Envelope the space that a rail vehicle could potentially occupy as it moves laterally and vertically on its suspension.
Kirow rail mounted crane used for track renewal work. (Manufacturer's name)
KM Kingmoor, Carlisle
KVA Ferrywagon, a bogied van.
KX London Kings Cross
 
L
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Large Logo BR loco livery of the 1980s, with yellow cabsides and a large BR symbol.
LC Level Crossing, of road and rail.
LD Light Diesel, locomotive(s) with no train.
LDB Live Departure Board. On the National Rail website
LDC Local Distribution Centre (for Network Rail engineering materials).
LE Light Engine, locomotive(s) with no train.
Lego nickname for class 70 locomotives
LENNON Latest Earnings Networked Nationally Over Night. Part of the RSP suite of systems
LHCS Locomotive Hauled Coaching Stock
LIP Locomotive Inspection Point
LKX London Kings Cross
LL Low Level
LLC Local Level Committee (of trade union)
LLPA Long-line Public Address
LMD Light Maintenance Depot.
LMS London Midland and Scottish Railway (1923-1947)
LNER London and North Eastern Railway (1923-1947)
LNER London North Eastern Railway (from 2018)
Lobster bogied open wagon (converted from BDA) code MXA
LOM Local Operations Manager
LOOU Locked Out Of Use
LOP Loss Of Power
LRA Low Rail Adhesion
LRT Light Rail Transit. Trams.
LUL London Underground Ltd
LWRT Long Welded Rail Train
 
M
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Mallard Name given by GNER to refurbished Mk4 carriages.
MAS Multiple Aspect Signalling. Colour light signals with TCB.
MBA Bogied high sided open wagons.
MCB full barrier level crossing, with protecting signals. (More on wikipedia).
MCB-OD automatic version of MCB with obstacle detection. (More on wikipedia).
MDTR Modern Dynamic Thrusting Railway
MEA 2-axle high sided open wagons, mostly used for coal.
Megafret IKA wagons, twin-unit low-floor intermodal flats from Swiss leasing company AAE
MENTOR Mobile Electrical Network Testing, Observation and Recording. A test train carriage.
MFS Material Forwarding System. 4-axle ballast/spoil hoppers with conveyor belts (code YDA Octopus).
MGR Merry-Go-Round, a coal train which loads and discharges whilst moving at slow speed.
MH Millerhill, depot and yard in Edinburgh
MHA 'Coalfish' 2-axle low-sided wagon for ballast/spoil (MFA, MPA and MTA are similar).
MIA Manchester Airport (station code)
Mk1 Carriages built 1952-1964, still in use on some excursion trains.
Mk2 Carriages built 1964-1974, later examples have air-conditioning
Mk3 Carriages built 1975-1985. Loco hauled and in HSTs. 23m long with ribbed roofs.
Mk4 Carriages built 1989-91, used in IC225 sets with class 91 locos.
MKIV Mark 4 carriage. see above.
ML Motherwell (depot code)
MLG Mallaig (station code)
MOBC Medium Output Ballast Cleaner train
MoD Ministry of Defence
Modal Intermodal freight, containers, swapbodies, which can be transferred between train, lorry and ship.
MOM Mobile Operations Manager (Network Rail staff)
MoP Member of Public
MOS Motor Open Standard class (sometimes MSO). DMU/EMU vehicle without driving cab.
MP Mile Post
MPA 'Coalfish' 2-axle low-sided wagon for ballast/spoil (MFA, MHA and MTA are similar).
MPD Motive Power Depot
MPV Multi-Purpose Vehicle. A 2-vehicle track maintenance unit, with exchangeable modules.
MRA bogie side-tipping ballast wagon
MSC Motherwell Signalling Centre
MSL Miniature Stop Lights. Red & Green lights provided for crossing users at some types of level crossings.
MSL Motor Standard class with Lavatory. DMU vehicle without driving cab.
MSP Miniature Snow ploughs
MSP Member of Scottish Parliament
MSRS Mode Shift Revenue Support
MTIA Many thanks in advance
MTU Make of diesel engines, now fitted to HSTs
MTY empty (wagons)
MU Multiple Unit. DMUs and EMUs.
Mud Oil drilling fluid brought from Harwich to Aberdeen in TUA wagons.
Multiple Unit Trains that can (in most cases) be coupled together to form longer trains. Known as Railcars in other countries.
MW Multiple-Working. Traction units connnected with jumpers, under the control of one driver.
MWL Miniature Warning Lights (now known as MSL).
MXA bogied open wagon (converted from BDA) 'Lobster'
 
N
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
NatEx National Express, may refer to a version of ScotRail Livery
nb Northbound
NB Non-Boiler, a diesel loco not equipped for train heating.
NBL North British Locomotive. Glasgow based manufacturer, went bust in 1962. <more on Wikipedia>
NBR North British Railway (1844-1922)
NBW North Berwick (station code)
NCB National Coal Board <Wikipedia>
NCL Newcastle (station code)
NDS National Delivery Service. Was the part of Network Rail which manages engineering trains and materials. See NSC.
NELPG North Eastern Locomotive Preservation Group <website>
NMT New Measurement Train, Network Rail's all-yellow HST.
No. 9 steam locomotive 60009 'Union of South Africa'
NR Network Rail (the less ambiguous 'NWR' is preferred)
NRCoC National Rail Conditions of Carriage
NRE National Rail Enquiries <website>
NRM National Railway Museum, York
NRN National Radio Network. Cab-to-Shore radio telephone system introduced in the 1980s
NSC National Supply Chain. From April 2014 the part of Network Rail which manages engineering trains and materials.
NSE Network SouthEast, part of BR in Southern England (1986-1994)
NTC New Track Construction Machine, places sleepers and fixes the running rails on a prepared track bed.
NWR Network Rail
NX Entrance-Exit, Signaller's Panel with buttons at each signal for setting the route.
NX National Express
NXEC National Express East Coast, (Nov 2007 - Dec 2009)
NY Network Yard, old BR designation for a freight yard, e.g. Carlisle N.Y.
NYMR North Yorkshire Moors Railway
 
O
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
OAA 2-axle long wheel-base, low-sided open wagons (OBA & OCA are similar).
OB# Overbridge (over the railway)
OCS Overhead Contact System. Usually called OLE in the UK.
Octopus Skako ballast distribution hopper wagon, code YDA
Off when a signal shows a proceed aspect.
OLE Overhead Line Equipment (Electrification). Sometimes written as OHL or OHLE
OOU Out Of Use
OP Original Poster, the person who started discussion thread
ORR Office of Rail Regulation
ORCATS Operational Research Computer Allocation of Tickets to Services. Allocates revenue between train operators on common routes.
OSGT Optical Structure Gauging Train. (more..)
Osprey bogied flat wagon for carrying track panels, code YKA, a modified version of a Salmon.
OSS Over Speed Sensor. Part of <TPWS>.
OT Off topic (Not about Scotland's Railways)
OT Land somewhere south of Berwick or Carlisle.
OTDIH On this day in History.
OTM On-Track Machine, for track maintenance. see more..
OTMR On Train Monitoring Recorder. The railway equivalent of aviation's 'black box' data recorder. Sometimes called OTDR.
OTP On-Track Plant machinery, typically Road-Rail vehicles.
OTT Open Train Times, <http://www.opentraintimes.com/>
OTT Over the top
Over the top variation on 'Across the top'
Overlap A length of track beyond a stop signal which must be clear before a train can approach it.
 
P
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
P2 a map based computer system, providing train running information to station staff.(more...)
P&J The Press and Journal, daily newspaper for the North of Scotland. <Website>
Pacer Class 142 DMU, official name when new
Pathing time time added to a train schedule, so that it does not conflict with another train.
Pax Passengers
PC Power car, HST class 43 loco
PCA 2-axle 'Presflow' wagon, carries powdered products: cement, alumina
PCI Paisley Corridor Improvements, project to build 3rd track between Shields and Arkleston. Remnant of GARL.
PCR Paisley Corridor Renewals (resignalling project)
PCV Propelling Control Vehicle. A parcels van with a cab at one end.
Ped nickname for class 31 locomotives
Pendolino Official name for class 390 tilting trains.
Perch bogied Long-Welded Rail wagon, code YEA
Permissive Working allowing a train into an already occupied section.
PGS Paisley Gilmour Street
PHBT Person hit By train
PICOP Person In Charge Of Possession
Pilotman A person appointed to conduct trains over a line used in both directions, during equipment failure.
PIK Prestwick Airport (airport code)
Pined Terminated short of destination, from telegraph code word PINE
PIS Passenger Information System (on a train)
PLPR Plain Line Pattern Recognition. Video based track inspection system.
PLS Position Light Signal, used for shunting, and permissive working.
PMOS Pantograph Motor Open Standard class (sometimes PMS or PMSO). EMU vehicle.
PNB Physical Needs Break (for train crew)
PO Polmadie (old depot code)
POB Private Owner's Brake, the support coach for a steam loco.
POE Point Operating Equipment, "Actuation, Locking & Detection"
PON Periodical Operating Notice, a bi-monthly document with updates to Sectional Appendix and other instructions.
Possession When the running lines are blocked for maintenance work.
PPE Personal Protective Equipment, including high visibility orange clothing.
PPM Public Performance Measure. Combined figure for punctuality and cancellations.
PQQ Pre Qualification Questionnaire, to select which suppliers are to be invited to tender.
PRDC Princess Royal Distribution Centre. Royal Mail Terminal at Willesden, north London.
PRM-TSI Persons of Reduced Mobility (see TSI)
PS Power Station, e.g. Longannet P.S., Cockenzie P.S.
PSB Power Signal Box (term used south of the border, e.g. Carlisle PSB )
PSG Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
PSI Points Set Indicator, used on RETB signalled lines.
PSR Permanent Speed Restriction
PSR Passenger Service Requirement. Minimum level of services in TOC franchise agreements. (Superseded by SLC).
PTH Perth (station code)
PTOSL Pantograph Trailer Open Standard class, with Lavatory. EMU vehicle.
PTS Personal Track Safety. Certificate held by staff working trackside.
PTT Public Timetable (as opposed to the WTT)
Push-Pull A train formation where a locomotive at the rear can be controlled by the driver at the front.
Pway Permanent Way. Rails, sleepers and ballast.
 
Q
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Q Path a train which runs as required.
Quail railway track diagrams, published by <http://www.trackmaps.co.uk/>
QSA Barrier Coach / Translator Coach / Brake-force runner Coach.
QSt Glasgow Queen Street
QXA Departmental Coaching stock (e.g Test Train vehicle)
 
R
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
R&C Rutherglen and Coatbridge line
RA Route Availability, a measure of axle-load.
RAB Regulatory Asset Base. The ORR's calculation of the value of Network Rail's assets.
RAIB Rail Accident Investigation Branch
RailVac Ballast Vacuum Extraction System, OTM, usually hauled to and from site. <read more..>
The Ranch Carnforth Steamtown MPD, the home of West Coast Railway Company
RAW unprocessed digital photo file. <more on Wikipedia>
RCE Regional Civil Engineer (BR era)
RCF Rolling Contact Fatigue, damage to rails and cause of the Hatfield derailment in 2000.
RCH Railway Clearing House. A pre-nationalisation body for setting inter-operating standards between railways.
RCH jumper A two-pin lighting control wire, fitted to all loco-hauled coaches, and also used for TDM multiple-working.
RCM Route Control Manager
RCTS Railway Correspondence and Travel Society <link>
RDT Rail Delivery Train, drops long welded rails at a worksite.
RDW Rest Day Working
REB Relocatable Equipment Building. (Signalling)
Red snapper low sided bogie wagons, for ballast and spoil. Code MLA.
Res Rail Express Systems. BR business which ran parcels and mail trains (1991-1997).
RETB Radio Electronic Token Block, a signalling system for single lines.
REx Rail Express Magazine
RFB Buffet car / Open First class Carriage
RfD Railfreight Distribution (1988-1997). BR business which latterly ran trains to the Channel Tunnel.
RGS Railway Group Standards
RHTT Rail Head Treatment Trains, clearing leaves off the track in Autumn.
RIO Rail Incident Officer
RLO Lounge car on the Caledonian Sleepers.
RMB Miniature buffet car. Mk1 Open Second class carriage with a Buffet Counter in the middle.
RMT National Union of Rail, Maritime & Transport Workers
RMT Royal Mail Terminal
RO The Railway Observer. Monthly magazine of the RCTS
ROC Rail Operating Centre (Signalling and Operations Control)
ROG Rail Operations Group, train operator that moves rolling stock around the network
ROGS Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations
Ronnie nickname for class 57 locomotives
ROSCO Rolling stock leasing company.
ROTP Rules of the Plan, now known as Timetable Planning Rules (TPR).
ROTR Rules of the Route. Document which specifies when Track Maintenance can take place, now called EAS.
RR Run-round. The transfer of a locomotive from one end of its train to the other.
RRA A runner wagon - acts as a barrier for overhanging loads from an adjacent wagon. (Photo).
RRB Rail Replacement Bus
RRV Road-Rail Vehicle
RS The Royal Scotsman. Sometimes RSM.
RSC Radio Survey Coach. See Test Trains.
RSG Royal Scots Grey, diesel loco 55022.
RSI Rolling Stock Inspector
RSP Rail Settlement Plan, part of ATOC responsible for coordinating ticket sales, fares and allocating revenue among TOCs
RSR 99 Railway Safety Regulations 1999. Train Protection systems and restricted use of Mk1 coaching stock. <ORR info>
RSSB Rail Safety and Standards Board
RT Railtrack (1994-2002), predecessor to Network Rail.
RT Right Time
RTC Railway Technical Centre, Derby. Home to Test trains.
RTOV Remote Train Operating Vehicle (ex DBSO). Used in Test Trains.
RTT http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/
RTV Rail Travel Voucher, usually given as refunds.
Rule Book a document containing all the rules and regulations necessary for the safe running of the railway.
RUS Route Utilisation Strategy, produced by Network Rail
RVAR Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (1998)
 
S
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
S&C Settle and Carlisle Railway. Route of freight heading to Yorkshire.
S&C Switches and Crossings. Points etc.
S&T Signalling and Telecoms
SAK Stirling Alloa Kincardine line reopened in 2008.
Salmon bogied flat wagon, for carrying track panels. Code YSA/YWA.
SAM Site Access Manager (engineering works)
Sandite a paste applied to the rails in autumn, to prevent trains slipping on crushed leaves.
SANOS Scotland Accelerated National Operating Strategy (closing signal boxes)
SAPT Scottish Association for Public Transport. Campaign group.
SARS Signallers Assistant Route Setting.
SAYLSA Stranraer to Ayr Line Support Association. (Website)
SB Signal box
sb Southbound
SB Rail Swietelsky - Babcock joint venture, operating OTMs.
SC Signalling Centre (called a Power Signal Box south of the border)
Scot-rail Scotland's online rail enthusiast community. Note the Hyphen!
Scottie Dog the Scottish Terrier, a small black haired dog, often confused with a Westie. <Wikipedia>
ScR BR abbreviation for Scottish Region, later known as ScotRail
Scud nickname for class 158 DMUs, local to Scotland.
SDA Stirling-Dunblane/Alloa Electrification Project.
SDO Selective Door Opening, system used on modern trains for stopping at short platforms.
Second Class Pre-1987 name for Standard Class accommodation
Sectional Appendix a document detailing the running lines, line speeds and operating procedures for a section of the railway.
Seacow bogie ballast hopper, code YGA/YGB/YGH
Semaphore mechanical signal with a moving arm.
Serco company which operated Test Trains on behalf of Network Rail, until 2010.
Set an individual multiple-unit, or carriages in a fixed formation.
SG The Scottish Government
SGT Structure Gauging Train. (more..)
Shed nickname for EWS/DBS class 66 locomotives.
Shove Duff nickname for Push-Pull fitted Class 47/7 locos, 47701-717.
Showing as reported by railway computer systems
Silver bullet ICA bogied tank wagon, stainless steel, with dipped centre.
SIMBIDS Simplified Bi-directional Signalling, for use when one track is blocked.
Single Manned locomotive driver not accompanied by a secondman (driver's assistant).
Six-foot area between a pair of running lines.
Skinhead nickname for the class 31 locos without a headcode box.
SK Second class Corridor carriage (with compartments)
Skip nickname for class 67 locomotives.
Skoda nickname for class 90 locomotives.
SLC Service Level Commitment, in TOC franchise agreements.
SLU Standard Length Unit, a measure for freight trains. 1 SLU = 21ft
SLW Single Line Working, procedure for operating trains over one line of a double track section in an emergency or due to engineering work
SMA Strathclyde Manning Agreement (for Driver Only Operation)
Snark nickname for the New Track Construction Machine (NTC)
SO Saturdays Only
SOW Start Of Work (in the morning).
SOWC Showing occupied when clear (track circuit fault)
SPAD Signal Passed at Danger (without authority)
Speedlink British Rail's air-braked wagonload freight network, 1977-1991.
Spoon nickname for class 47 locomotives.
Sprinter Official name for class 150 DMUs, when introduced. Also applies to other 15X classes
SPT Signal Post Telephone
SPT Strathclyde Partnership for Transport
SPTE Strathclyde Passenger Transport Executive
SQUIRE Service Quality Incentive Regime. <Link>
SRA Strategic Rail Authority (2001-2006). <more on Wikipedia>
SRPS Scottish Railway Preservation Society
SRH Scottish Rail Holdings. <more on Wikipedia>
SRS Scottish Railfans Society
SRT ScotRail Trains. Train operator since April 2022.
SRT Section Running Time. Point to point timings for different train types, used in timetable planning.
SS Section Sidings, old BR designation for a freight yard, e.g. Millerhill S.S.
SSA 2-axle high-sided open wagon, carries scrap metal.
SSF Speed Sensing Fitted, a device that applies the brakes should the driver select 'Engine Only' or 'Off' on the direction selector when the locomotive is moving.
SSI Solid State Interlocking. Signalling logic control using computers, rather than relays.
SSM Shift Signalling Manager
SSO Special Stop Order, for a train to make an additional station call.
SST Self-Service Ticket machine
Stabled rolling stock parked until its next duty.
Std Standard Class accommodation, a term adopted by BR in 1987
Stoneblower OTM which lifts the track and blows stone chippings under the sleepers.
Stored rolling stock that is not available for traffic, and not undergoing repairs. May be stored in serviceable or unserviceable condition.
STP Short Term Plan (train schedule)
STPR Strategic Transport Projects Review, a report published by Transport Scotland in 2008. <Link>
STRC Scotland Track Renewal Company
Streak nickname for A4 class steam locomotive
Strummer nickname for class 47 locos
Sub Edinburgh Suburban line
Sulzer make of engines fitted to class 26, 27, 33 and 47
Super Sprinter official name for class 156 DMUs, when introduced
SWT South West Trains, operator in southern England, run by Stagecoach
SX Saturdays Excepted. A train running Monday to Friday.
 
T
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
T+T Top and Tail, locomotives at both ends of a train. The rear locomotive may be dead.
T3 Blockage / Engineering possession of the line (from Module T3 of the Rule Book)
TAA Track Access Agreement. A contract between a Train Operator and Network Rail
TAC Track Access Contract. (as above).
Tablet Catcher single line token exchange equipment mounted on the cab sides of locomotives. In use on Highland lines until late 1960s.
Tamper OTM which lifts, aligns and levels the track, and compacts ballast under the sleepers.
Tandem Double-headed locomotives, driven independently (not MW)
TASS Tilt Authorisation & Speed Supervision. Track to train system which allows EPS.
TAWS Transport & Works (Scotland). See <TS website>
TBC To be confirmed
TBH To be honest ...
T-bird Thunderbird (see below).
TBOX Time Based Overhaul + Extra work
TBW Temporary Block Working. Arrangments to allow trains to pass through an area with failed signalling equipment, using hand-signallers.
TC Terminal Complex, old BR designation for a freight yard, e.g. Thornton T.C.
TCB Track Circuit Block, modern method of signalling.
TCC Traincare Centre, what used to known as a Maintenance Depot, e.g. Polmadie TCC
TCF Track Circuit Failure.
TD Train Describer. Used in signalling to identify trains by headcode.
TDM Time Division Multiplex. An electronic system used for transmitting a number of data channels over a single pair of wires. Used in both signalling and locomotive controls.
TE Ticket Examiner
TEA bogied tank wagon
TGFB Trailer with Guards compartment, First class and Mini-Buffet. HST carriage.
TGS Trailer Guard Standard class carriage in HST set
Thunderbird A locomotive for rescuing failed trains. Also name for class 57 locomotives. (more...)
TIA Thanks in advance
TIC Track Inspection Coach (more...)
TIE Transport Initiatives Edinburgh (usually written as tie).
Tightlock type of automatic coupling fitted to EMUs
TIPLOC Timing Point Location, a four to seven letter abbreviation used by timetable planning systems. <More info here>.
Tiptop nickname of Class 27 locomotives
TIS Traction Interlock Switch, isolates the doors-closed interlocking on a DMU/EMU.
TJ Thornton Junction (depot code)
TMD Traction Maintenance Depot
TMS Train Management System (On-board computer)
TOC Train Operating Company, usually a franchised passenger operator
Token a tablet or key used with Electric Token Block signalling of single lines
Tokenless Block method of signalling on single lines, introduced in 1960s
TOPS Total Operations Processing System. A computer system for managing locomotives and wagons, plus much else. (more...)
TPE Trans Pennine Express. Sometimes TPX.
TPH Trains Per Hour (in one direction)
TPM Tyre Profiling Machine (a wheel lathe for removing flat spots)
TPO Travelling Post Office, with mail sorted by PO staff during the journey. Final TPO trains ran in January 2004.
TPR Train Planning Rules (formerly RotP), <Network Rail document>.
TPS Train Planning System
TPTB The powers that be
TPWS Train Protection and Warning System. <more on Wikipedia>
Track Circuit method of train detection used by signalling systems.
Tractor nickname for Class 37 locos.
Translator a type of barrier coach used for moving EMUs to and from Works, which can operate the EMUs brakes.
Trap Points points installed at the exits from sidings or goods lines to derail vehicles and thus prevent them running away onto a running line.
TRB Train Register Book, log book kept in a Signal box.
TRC Train Running Controller, in the Operations Control Office.
Troll someone who posts a deliberately provocative message on a forum, intending to cause disruption and argument.
TRU Track Recording Unit, 950001, a test train similar to a class 150 DMU.
TRUST Train Running System TOPS. A computer system for checking train running against the scheduled timetable. (more...)
TS Transport Scotland
TSC Train Service Code, 8-digit numbers used to identify groups of train services within the timetable
TSC Track Sectioning Cabin, at a neutral section between OLE feeder stations.
TSDB Train Service Database. Network Rail's database of train schedules.
TSI Technical Specification for Interoperability (European Standard)
TSO Standard class Open carriage. T = tourist, 2+2 seating.
TSR Temporary Speed Restriction, often following track renewal work
TSS Train Stop Sensor. Part of <TPWS>.
TT Timetable
TTA 2-axle oil tank wagon
TTI Travelling Ticket Inspector
Tug nickname for class 60 locomotives
TUPE Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) <wikipedia>.
Turbostar official name for class 170 DMUs
TVM Ticket Vending Machine
TWB Tweedbank (station code)
TY Thank you
Type 1 diesel locomotives in the 800-1000hp range, e.g. class 20
Type 2 diesel locomotives in the 1001-1499hp range, e.g. class 25, 26, 27, and class 31
Type 3 diesel locomotives in the 1500-1999hp range, e.g. class 33 and class 37
Type 4 diesel locomotives in the 2000-2999hp range, e.g. class 40, 47 and 50.
Type 5 diesel locomotives in the 3000+ hp range, e.g. class 55, 56 and 60.
 
U
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
UAT Ultrasonic Axle Testing
UB# Underbridge (under the railway)
UBA Unsolicited Brake Application (not initiated by the train driver)
UFN Until further notice
UGL Up Goods Loop
uid Unidentified
UMH Universal Material Handling. 4-axle engineers wagon with conveyor belts and generator (code YIA) works with MFS train.
Unit a self contained train with driving cabs at each end. DMUs and EMUs.
UoSA steam locomotive 60009 'Union of South Africa'
Up the direction towards London (but there are some exceptions to this rule).
UPL Up Passenger Loop
URS Up Refuge Siding
UTU Ultrasonic Test Unit, a type of Test Train which checks for rail defects.
UTX Under Track Crossing. A ducted cable route.
UUG Useless Unit Gen
UWC User Worked Crossing. Protected by gates that open away from the railway, or by lifting barriers (UWB). Categorised as either Accommodation Crossing (connecting farmer's fields) or Occupation Crossing (private road). <NWR Level Crossings>.
 
V
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Valenta type of engine orignally fitted to Class 43 HST power cars
VAR Variation, an amended WTT train schedule, often caused engineering works
VCB Vacuum Circuit Breaker, isolates the power supply from the pantograph on electric traction.
Vomiter nickname for class 220 and class 221 DMUs
Voyager official name for class 220 DMUs
VP185 VP185 a type of engine fitted to Class 43 HST power cars operated by EMT.
VQ Virtual Quarry - a large stockpile of ballast.
VSOE Venice Simplon Orient Express, (renamed Belmond in March 2014). Operators of the Northern Belle train
VSTP Very Short Term Plan. A train schedule created at short notice. (May appear as VST)
VT Virgin Trains
VTEC Virgin Trains East Coast (2015-2018)
VVR VSTP-VAR. Very Short Term Plan Variation. A train schedule amended at short notice.
VWC Virgin West Coast
 
W
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
WAR Work as required, (within an engineering possession)
wb Westbound
WCML West Coast Main Line, Glasgow to the south via Carstairs and Beattock
WCRC West Coast Railway Company, operators of the Jacobite and other excursion trains
Week 01 NWR Calendar, week with first Monday in April (e.g. Saturday 03/04/21 to Friday 09/04/21)
Week 39 The last week in December (e.g. Saturday 25/12/21 to Friday 31/12/21)
Week 52 The last week in March (e.g. Saturday 27/03/21 to Friday 02/04/21)
Westie West Highland White Terrier, emblem of the West Highland Line and the former Eastfield TMD. Not to be confused with a 'Scottie dog'. <Wikipedia>
WFH Working from home
Wheel slide when wheels lock-up during braking.
Wheel slip when wheels spin without gripping the rail when accelerating
Wheelchex brand name for a Wheel Impact Load Detector (more...)
Wheelskate A device for rescuing crippled vehicles where a wheelset is not fit to rotate, by lifting the affected wheelset and providing alternative support and guidance. (Photo)
Whistler nickname for class 40 locos.
WHL West Highland Line, Craigendoran to Fort William. Often includes Oban and Mallaig
Wiki an easy to edit, collaborative website.
WNXX End of the Line website <http://www.wnxx.com/>
WON Weekly Operating Notice. Details of Engineering work and changes to Sectional Appendix.
Works facility for carrying out heavy repairs and overhauls of rolling stock.
WPR Wemyss Private Railway, serving collieries in Fife.
WSP Wheel Slide Protection or Wheel Slip Protection
WSSC West of Scotland Signalling Centre. Located at Cowlairs
WTT Working timetable, (long term train schedules)
 
X
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
XBN Bounds Green Depot in London
XC CrossCounty
XCN Craigentinny Depot (two letter code is EC)
XFD Ferme Park Depot in London
 
Y
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Yaw damper a shock absorber fitted to certain types of bogies to control their rotation at high speeds
YEA 'Perch', bogied Long-Welded Rail wagon
Yellow the caution aspect of a colour light signal
YGB 'Seacow' bogied ballast hopper, some are code YGA or YGH
Ying nickname for class 66 locos.
YKA 'Osprey', bogied flat wagon for carrying track panels, a modified version of a Salmon.
YLA 'Mullet', bogied wagon for carring rails or pipes. (Photo)
YT YouTube, video-sharing <website>
YWA 'Salmon', bogied flat wagon, for carrying track panels. (Some are YSA)
YZA Stoneblower (On-Track Machine)
 
Z
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ZH Glasgow Works, Railcare at Springburn (depot code)
ZOA Kirow rail-mounted cranes for engineering work
ZZA snowplough, the kinds propelled by locos.



See Also

External Links