What advantages did a 7-plank wagon have over a 5-sided version?

A 7-plank wagon had several advantages over a 5-sided version.

Here's why:

Increased capacity : the additional planks in a 7-plank wagon provided higher side walls compared to a 5-sided version. This increased the overall capacity of the wagon, allowing it to carry a greater volume of cargo. The higher sides provided more space for goods, enabling the wagon to transport larger quantities of bulk materials or larger objects.

Improved load retention : with the extra planks, a 7-plank wagon offered improved load retention capabilities. The higher side walls reduced the risk of cargo shifting or falling out during transit. This was particularly important for transporting loose or lightweight materials that needed to be contained securely within the wagon.

Flexibility : the design of a 7-plank wagon offered greater flexibility in terms of the types of cargo it could carry. The increased capacity and improved load retention made it suitable for a wide range of goods, including coal, aggregates, timber and general merchandise. The versatility of a 7-plank wagon made it a valuable asset in various industries and railway operations.

Realism and prototype accuracy : modelling a 7-plank wagon adds authenticity and accuracy to represent specific types of rolling stock used in different eras and regions. By incorporating wagons with the appropriate number of planks, Modellers can recreate the variety of designs and configurations seen on historical railways. This attention to detail will be especially important for Modellers striving for the greatest levels of realism and historical accuracy on their layouts.

By including 7-plank wagons on a layout, a modeller can showcase the diverse range of wagons used throughout railway history and capture the unique characteristics of these specific designs. Whether it's for increased capacity, improved load retention or historical accuracy, the 7-plank wagon offers distinct advantages over its 5-sided counterpart.