| My 2006 trip started at the colossal Baotou steelworks, where a massive increase in production has allowed steam to survive the purchase of diesels. Overhauls were being carried out in the typically atmospheric shed, and we were made to feel welcome by the railway staff. |
 |
| SY 1748, with headboards and smoke deflectors stands out amidst the industrial landscape. |
 |
| Taking coal, the same loco is dominated by the astonishing skyline. Around 20 steam engines are in use or on standby/under repair on the site. |
 |
| SY 1727 takes a slag train from under one of the five giant blast furnaces. The pollution and dust in the air was astonishing. |
 |
| SY 2015 was working in the coke ovens during our visit. |
 |
| The slag tips were extremely busy, with a train every 45 minutes. The temperatures coming off the rock were enough to scorch my arm hairs from 100 yards. |
 |