British Rail 18100 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail 18100 |
|
| Power type | Gas turbine-electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | Metropolitan Vickers, Trafford Park |
| Order number | GWR Lot 388 |
| Build date | 1951 |
| UIC classification | Co'Co' |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 3 ft 8 in (1.118 m) |
| Wheelbase | 53 ft 0 in (16.15 m) |
| Length | 66 ft 9+1⁄4 in (20.35 m) |
| Width | 9 ft 0 in (2.74 m) |
| Height | 12 ft 10 in (3.91 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 129.50 long tons (131.58 t) |
| Generator | Metropolitan-Vickers, 3 off |
| Traction motors | Metropolitan-Vickers, 6 off |
| Transmission | DC generators DC traction motors |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Power output | 3,000 hp (2,240 kW) At rail: 2,450 hp (1,830 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 60,000 lbf (266.89 kN) |
| Train heating | Spanner steam generator |
| Train brakes | Vacuum |
| Career | British Railways |
| Power class | BR Type 5 |
| Last run | 1954 |
| Retired | December 1957 |
| Disposition | Rebuilt to 25 kV electric locomotive E1000 (E2001 from 1959) |
The British Rail 18100 was a special kind of train engine built in 1951. It was a prototype, which means it was a test model. This locomotive used a gas turbine engine to make electricity, which then powered its wheels.
It was built for British Railways by a company called Metropolitan-Vickers in Manchester. The idea for this train came from the Great Western Railway back in the 1940s. However, its construction was delayed because of World War II.
The 18100 spent its short working life on the Western Region of British Railways. It was mainly used for fast passenger services. These trains ran from London Paddington station to other cities.
What Happened Next?
This unique locomotive didn't stay a gas turbine-electric train for long. In 1958, it was changed into an electric locomotive. This means it started getting its power from overhead electric lines or a third rail. After this change, it was known as British Rail Class 80.
The train continued to be used for some time in its new electric form. However, it was eventually taken out of service and scrapped in 1973.
Images for kids
-
This picture was taken in 1969. The Class 80 (which used to be the 18100) was stored near Akeman Street railway station.
