0-6-0 Steam Locomotives in France

Class unknown (Locobase 14585)

Data from DeGolyer, Volume 57, pp.111+. See also at [], last accessed 16 January 2026. Works number was 45084 in February 1917.

Incorporated in 1867 in Saint Denis, this metals company (copper and brass at first, later a wider variety) expanded through acquisition (Sérifontaine, Castelsarrasin,) and creation (e.g. in the Ardennes). It prospered throughout the latter 1800s and survived to be merged in 1962 to form Tréfimétaux.

Acquired during World War I, the all-adhesion six-coupled industrial tank locomotive operated in typically cramped conditions. It needed to haul 30 long tons up a 3% grade and negotiate 35 metre curves; track conditions necessitated adding one plate to the usual count in the locomotive's springs.. As it would run backward as much as forward, the cab needed to allow the motorman to "easilty in either direction."

Germany occupied the Ardennes in both World Wars and in the second, the Third Reich required French industry to supply its requirements. The CGAA site notes: "The isolated location of the factory proved to be an advantage during World War II, allowing it to be reopened to supply the airforce and navy.

The factory produced a range of products during the German occupation, including civilian goods like cans, agricultural machinery parts, and PTT cables, as well as parts for the German air force.

The plant was gradually converted back to producing peace-time products after the war, although some military products continued to be made until 1953."