MA 51
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Matériel Articulé (MA) Appel d'offres 1951, also known as the MA 51, was a subway train used on the Paris Metro network between 1951 and 1994.
The MA 51 rolling stock was a result of research conducted by the Compagnie du chemin de fer métropolitain de Paris (CMP) and the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens (RATP) during the 1940 in response to the then-used Sprague-Thomson rolling stock being considered heavy and outdated. The company envisioned a rolling stock that was lighter and equipped with the Jeumon-Heidmann (JH) system[clarification needed] used on the Sceaux Line since 1938. In addition, the company hoped to improve the trains' braking abilities. The most-used solution at the time was a rolling stock with a common bogie between two cars[clarification needed].
At the same time, the company also desired to employ modular trains that could be expanded during peak hours. Lines equipped with stations of at least 75 metres (82 yd) supported trains with two trainsets and those with stations of at least 105 metres (115 yd) supported trains with three trainsets. An overall extension project of all stations' lengths to 105 metres (115 yd) began in 1931, yet was never completed : Lines 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12, were left untouched. All extension projects include that extended length, including on these lines.
Description
Each trainset consisted of three body sections resting on four bogies. The central section was shorter than the rest and in 1952 was designated as a first class car. The trainset were equipped with Scharfenberg automatic couplings, which allowed quick trainset coupling and uncoupling.
Seats were divided into two classes, and fluorescent lighting was used. Folding seats were used at each end to increase the number of available passenger seats.
The initial livery was grayish-blue across all cars. However, with the introduction of first class in the 1950s[clarification needed], the RATP had first class cars in the middle colored red, a trend that did not catch on. RATP eventually incorporated yellow into the color scheme, between gray and blue bands.
The model is unusual in that the driving cab could double as passenger accommodation. A door existed which, when opened, allowed access to the control panel. A folding seat was attached to the side of the door, allowing for the conductor to be seated. When the door was closed, it hid the control panel allowing additional passenger space.
