Mekarski system

A problem with compressed-air propulsion is that the air cools as it expands, which can lead to the formation of ice in the power cylinders.

Mekarski sought to overcome this problem by heating the air with steam, produced in a small boiler called a bouillotte.

[3] The system was promoted as being suitable for use in congested streets and in tunnels, as compressed air produced no smoke or flames, and thus would not disturb horses or fill the carriage with soot and sparks like a steam engine.

[6] The system was used in England on the Wantage Tramway but did not find favour there because the compressor plant used more than four times as much coal as a steam locomotive.

[5] There was 3.1 km long line with 10 cars in operation, which went from Bärengraben via Bern railway station to the cemetery.

It was an advantage that the cars on the return trip had to go only downhill, so when they run out of air, they had still the possibility to reach the filling station.

Preserved Nantes compressed air tramcar at the AMTUIR museum
Mekarski tram in Paris during 1910 flooding, the top of the hot water tank and the regulator can be seen in front of the car; the 9 air tanks are below the tram. [ 1 ]