The Weight Watcher: UIC Leaflet 582 Wagon Markings

Introduction to UIC Leaflet 582

If you look at the side of any freight wagon in Europe, you will see a grid of numbers and letters. This is not random data; it is the wagon’s operational passport. UIC Leaflet 582, titled “Marks on unified freight wagons,” establishes the rules for these technical inscriptions.

Its primary purpose is to tell the loader and the infrastructure manager exactly how much cargo can be safely loaded into the wagon based on the quality of the track (Line Category) it will travel on. It prevents overloading that could damage bridges or rails.

Snippet Definition: What is UIC 582?

UIC Leaflet 582 is a technical standard that specifies the layout and meaning of the markings applied to unified freight wagons. It is best known for defining the Load Limit Table (the grid showing payload limits for categories A, B, C, D), speed markings (S, SS), and special symbols like the Anchor (for ferry boat capability), ensuring visual interoperability across borders.

The Load Limit Table (The “Grid”)

The core of UIC 582 is the matrix that correlates the train’s speed and the line’s strength with the allowable payload.

1. The Columns (Line Categories)

The columns A, B, C, and D represent the maximum Axle Load the track can support.

• A: 16.0 tons per axle (Light branch lines).
• B: 18.0 tons per axle (Standard secondary lines).
• C: 20.0 tons per axle (Standard main lines).
• D: 22.5 tons per axle (Heavy freight corridors).

2. The Rows (Speed Regimes)

The rows indicate the maximum speed at which that weight can be carried.

• Unmarked (Standard): Typically 100 km/h (unless otherwise specified).
• S: 100 km/h (verified capability).
• SS: 120 km/h. (Payloads in the SS row are typically lower because higher speeds exert higher dynamic forces on the track).

Example: A wagon might be able to carry 60 tons on a ‘D’ line at 100 km/h, but only 50 tons on the same line if it needs to run at 120 km/h (‘SS’ row).

Special Symbols defined in UIC 582

Beyond weight, the leaflet standardizes symbols for specific capabilities.

• The Anchor: Indicates the wagon is fitted with tie-down lugs and a specific braking configuration approved for transport on train ferries (e.g., crossing the Baltic or formerly the Channel). A number next to the anchor often indicates the specific gauge (e.g., UK gauge).
• RIV / TEN: Historic markings indicating the wagon is authorized for international exchange without special bilateral agreements.

Comparison: UIC 582 vs. TSI WAG

The visual language of UIC 582 has been adopted into European Law.

Calculation of Payload

The number painted in the box is calculated as:

$$Payload = (Max \ Axle \ Load \times Number \ of \ Axles) – Tare \ Weight$$

For a 4-axle wagon with a tare weight of 22 tons on a ‘D’ line (22.5t axle load):

$$Max \ Mass = 4 \times 22.5 = 90 \ tons$$
$$Payload = 90 – 22 = 68 \ tons$$

Therefore, “68.0” would be painted in the box under column ‘D’.