UK: A 'robust' three-axle diesel locomotive for shunting and trip freight work in ports, refineries, cement works and steel plants has been launched by Hunslet Engine Company, part of the LH Group.
The DH60C has been developed as a flexible design available with a range of options to suit individual customer needs. Hunslet can supply the locomotive with a complete maintenance package, which it sees as an attractive proposition for operators currently using second-hand locomotives which are technically obsolete and expensive to maintain.
The DH60C is powered by a 354 kW Caterpillar C15 Acert engine complying with European Stage IIIA and US Tier 3 requirements, with a SAN Engineering hydro-dynamic transmission.
The top speed is 16 km/h running light, with over-speed protection limiting loaded trains to 12 km/h. There is a driver vigilance device as well as an emergency stop button. The locomotive is designed for one-person operation, with duplicated left and right side controls with separate seats. Up to four other people can be accommodated in the cab, which also has a bench seat.
Broad steps for shunting are provided at each corner, and the heavy buffer beams reach to within 140 mm of the rail to act as skid beams to prevent damage to frame-mounted equipment in the event of derailment. The offset cab provides a safety shell for the driver.
A four-wheel version is currently under development, and Hunslet has plans to seek Network Rail approval for use on the UK's national rail network.
