Cylindrical Covered Hopper

Prototype Information

The Canadian 3800 cubic-foot cylindrical covered hopper appeared in the late 1970s as a rugged solution for hauling heavy commodities like potash, cement, and sand. Built by National Steel Car, Hawker Siddeley, and Marine Industries, it carried forward the proven cylindrical “teardrop” design that defined Canada’s modern covered hoppers.

With a shorter body and four gravity discharge bays, the 3800 balanced strength and efficiency, handling dense loads that would overwhelm larger grain cars. Canadian National, Canadian Pacific, and government fleets put thousands of these cars to work across the country, moving industrial and agricultural products alike.

Through the 1980s and beyond, the 3800 became a familiar sight on Canadian mainlines—a tough, practical design that helped keep the nation’s bulk commodities moving and cemented its place in modern freight rail history.