Which steam engines were used for shunting?

Various types of steam locomotives were used for shunting operations. Here are some of the commonly seen steam engines used for shunting:

Saddle Tank Engines: Saddle tank engines, also known as saddle tanks, were frequently employed for shunting tasks. These locomotives had a water tank mounted over the top and sides of the boiler, often resembling a saddle shape. The compact size and good visibility from the cab made them well-suited for manoeuvring in yards and tight spaces.

Tank Engines: Tank engines, including side tank engines and pannier tank engines, were commonly utilized for shunting duties. These locomotives had water tanks on either side of the boiler or on top of the boiler, respectively. Their smaller size and agile nature allowed for easy navigation through yards and sidings.

Dock Tanks: Dock tanks were specialized steam locomotives designed for shunting in dockyards and harbours. They featured compact dimensions and often had side tanks and bunker arrangements that allowed them to work efficiently in confined spaces. Dock tanks were primarily employed for moving wagons and carriages between ships and warehouses.

Saddle Tank Pannier Engines: A specific variant of pannier tank engines, known as saddle tank pannier engines, combined the features of both saddle tank engines and pannier tank engines. These locomotives had a water tank mounted on top of the boiler and extended over the footplate, resembling a saddle. They were particularly common in industrial areas and small railways.

Industrial Tank Engines: Various types of industrial tank engines were used for shunting within industrial complexes, factories and private sidings. These locomotives were customized and built to meet the specific requirements of the industrial operations they served. They varied in size, design and features depending on the industry and its specific needs.

It is important to note that the types of steam engines used for shunting varied across different regions, time periods and railway companies. The specific locomotive types employed for shunting operations can differ based on local practices, available infrastructure and operational requirements.

Incorporating one or more of these steam locomotive types on a layout will help recreate the authentic atmosphere and functionality of a shunting yard, industrial area or dockyard.