EMD starts air con trials in Class 66 Locomotives

Electro Motive Diesel Inc. is providing First GBRf with an air conditioning condenser unit for trial in its Class 66 locomotives.

The trial, starting in August 2009, will last for a three month period, and if successful could be rolled out across the entire fleet.

The JT42 Class 66 cab air conditioning unit provides powerful cooling at 5kW, which reduces the cab humidity by removing moisture from the air, and maintains the cab temperature to a comfortable level, which can be set by the driver to ensure they are suitably cool on hot days.

The new system is mounted under the locomotive, and has been designed to fit the tight constraints of both variants of the Class 66 cab. Features of the air conditioning units include a twin fan speed, variable temperature setting, and adjustable louvers which allow the cooled air to be directed at both the driver and second man’s positions.

Bob Tiller, First GBRf fleet engineer, says: “The excellent working relationship between Porterbrook, EMD and First GBRf has made this trial possible. The installation has been extremely well organised and we are looking forward to a successful outcome during the trial period with our drivers experiencing a better working environment.”

The air conditioning units operate with a direct drive compressor which, unlike alternative belt driven systems, require fewer services and therefore provides, lower maintenance costs and improves overall reliability. Brushless fans powered from a converter further improve reliability and the use of self-sealing quick connectors on both the indoor and outdoor units further improves efficiency. 

Simon Lomax, Fleet Manager, Porterbrook, comments: “Porterbrook is happy to be working on this project with our partners First GBRf and EMD. This is the first time we have worked with EMD and we have found them to be an excellent partner. Throughout the project they have remained customer-focused, responsive and professional. We expect this project will deliver a significant improvement to the working conditions of First GBRf’s train crew.”

Duncan R. Scott, Managing Director, Electro Motive UK, says: “One of our goals and objectives as a company has been to develop and engineer a system to deliver an improved cab environment for our Class 66 Locomotive. We appreciate the opportunity offered by Porterbrook and First GBRf in allowing Electro Motive to introduce an excellent product which will enhance the Class 66.” 

Source: Transportweekly