0 (1.43.5) - Water crane (PLM)

The PLM water crane (Paris-Lyon-Mediterranean) was a railway equipment used to supply steam locomotives with water. Installed along the tracks in stations or depots, it consisted of a vertical column with a swivel arm to direct a large pipe to the locomotive reservoir. Often powered by nearby reservoirs, the PLM water crane played an essential role in the operation of steam trains, which required large quantities of water for their operation. Its design was simple but robust, characteristic of 19th century industrial infrastructure.