Globally, the rail transport changes at rapid pace, goods have to be carried on long distances and locomotives need to cope with these constant changes and the every day’s more alert rhythm. That is why, they are manufactured so as to adjust to the systems and demands specific to each and every country.
A reliable rail freight transport depends on the way in which the rolling stock is used, on the efficient implementation of the maintenance system and on technical repairs. In order to ensure an efficient transport and to increase the transport volumes, the locomotives have to be capable to haul heavier volumes, with lower levels of emissions and fuel consumption. Such a locomotive is manufactured by General Electric and the Turkish locomotive manufacturer TÜLOMSAŞ who presented the first PowerHaul locomotive assembled in Turkey with components manufactured by GE in Erie, Pennsylvania (USA). The locomotive has an enhanced traction power, while the fuel consumption and emissions are significantly reduced, compared to other locomotives currently in use.
To reach this performance, the vehicle benefits from several technologies including 16V cylinders, double-turbo
PowerHaul engine that meet the customers’ demand of energy efficiency. The 3,700 HP engine, next to other latest-generation technologies, is designed to reduce fuel consumption with up to 9% compared to the current average of the locomotives currently in operation. The enhanced fuel consumption will also help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and, implicitly, operation costs. “This locomotive is an important step in the field. The locomotive combines GE’s technology and know-how, as well as the manufacturing capacities, experience and quality of TÜLOMSAŞ’ production”, declared Hayri Avci, General Manager of TÜLOMSAŞ. The locomotive has been dedicated to the markets in Europe, Middle East and Nothern Africa. The Turkish company TCDD has already announced its intention to buy 20 such locomotives. To improve the efficiency of the freight transport and in order to reduce consumption and emissions, Russian Railways plan to purchase 1,250 locomotives by 2013, at a cost exceeding EUR 2.5 Billion. “We are developing new locomotive generations and we are planning to sign as many partnerships as possible with manufacturers to develop efficient locomotives at European standards”, declared RZD’s President, Vladimir Yakunin during the launch of the locomotive procurement announcement.
by Pamela Luică
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