Micro Metakit 11400H German H17 Experimental Test Locomotive of the DRG
The Micro Metakit H17.206, is an exquisite handmade brass locomotive. Boasting a complete cab interior, a functional boiler hatch with intricate boiler details, and equipped with Micro Metakit's top-tier brushless, ironless bell-shaped motor, this locomotive stands out with its superior running capabilities, exceptional detailing, and impressive pulling power. Micro Metakit models are simply the best brass models ever produced.
Prototype Information:
Originally derived from the S 10.2, No. 1201, the H17 underwent a significant transformation. Manufactured by Hanomag with the factory number 7434 in 1917, it was renumbered to 20445 in 1925. The year 1926 marked another change when it became the 17.206, integrating the high-pressure boiler of "Schmidt-Hartmann" and converting the power train to adhesion. The lighting system was upgraded to "Pinsch"-Gaslamps, and smoke deflectors were omitted. Its livery transitioned to the distinctive "photo-grey" scheme, painted in light grey-dark grey with white-black lines.
BR H 17 206 of the Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft
Post-WWI, the Deutsche Reichsbahn sought steam locomotive efficiency improvements due to coal shortages arising from the new political landscape. Drawing inspiration from the Swedish Ljungströms turbine locomotive 267 530, Krupp and Maffei locomotive works built the T 18 1001 and T 18 1002, which, like the Swedish locomotive, proved unsuccessful. Simultaneously, the H 02 1001, a complex disaster, never entered regular service.
Another avenue explored was the two-pressure system patented by W. Schmidt, suggested to Henschel locomotive works/Kassel in 1925. A former Prussian class S 10.1 (DRG class 17.2) served as the base for the reconstruction. Initial tests in 1927 near Magdeburg faced issues, leading to subsequent conversions and further tests in February 1928. Despite saving only 8% in coal compared to the Bavarian S 3/6, the locomotive endured various challenges. Attempting to achieve reliability, the DRG persisted until 1936, ultimately reverting it to its original state in 1937.
