British Rail Class 20 facts for kids
The British Rail Class 20 is a type of locomotive that runs on diesel fuel and uses electricity to power its wheels. It was first called an English Electric Type 1. These powerful trains were built by a company called English Electric between 1957 and 1968. A total of 228 of these locomotives were made! So many were built because other early train designs weren't very good, and the Class 20s turned out to be very reliable.
These locomotives were first given numbers like D8000 to D8199 and D8300 to D8327. Train fans often call them "Choppers." This fun nickname comes from the special sound their engine makes when it's working hard. It sounds a bit like a helicopter!
Quick facts for kids English Electric Type 1British Rail Class 20 |
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| Hunslet-Barclay 20903 on a weedkilling train at Doncaster, April 1994 | |
| Power type | Diesel-electric |
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| Builder | English Electric at Vulcan Foundry and Robert Stephenson and Hawthorns |
| Build date | 1957–1962, 1966–1968 |
| Configuration | Bo-Bo |
| UIC classification | Bo'Bo' |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 3 ft 7 in (1.092 m) |
| Minimum curve | 3.5 chains (70 m) |
| Wheelbase | 32 ft 6 in (9.91 m) |
| Length | 46 ft 9+1⁄2 in (14.262 m) |
| Width | 8 ft 9 in (2.67 m) |
| Height | 12 ft 8 in (3.86 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 72 long tons (73.2 t) |
| Fuel capacity | 380 imp gal (1,700 L; 460 US gal) |
| Prime mover | English Electric 8 SVT Mk.II |
| Traction motors | D8000–D8049: EE 526/5D Remainder: EE 526/8D |
| Transmission | DC generator, DC traction motors |
| Multiple working | ★ Blue Star |
| Top speed | 75 mph (121 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 1,000 hp (746 kW) |
| Tractive effort | Maximum: 42,000 lbf (186.8 kN) |
| Train heating | None |
| Locomotive brakeforce | 35 long tons-force (349 kN) |
| Train brakes | Vacuum |
| Career | British Railways |
| Number | D8000–D8199, D8300–D8327; later 20001–20228 |
| Axle load class | Route availability 5 |
Contents
What is a Diesel-Electric Locomotive?
A diesel-electric locomotive is a special kind of train. It doesn't use a diesel engine to directly turn its wheels. Instead, the diesel engine powers a large generator. This generator then makes electricity. The electricity is sent to electric motors that are connected to the wheels. So, it's like a power plant on wheels! This design makes the train very strong and able to pull heavy loads.
Why Were They Called "Choppers"?
The nickname "Choppers" is quite famous among train fans. It comes from the unique sound the engine makes. When the Class 20 locomotive is pulling a heavy train or going up a hill, its engine works hard. This creates a distinct, rhythmic beat. Many people think this sound is very similar to the noise a helicopter makes when its blades are spinning.
Where Were Class 20s Built?
The Class 20 locomotives were built by the company English Electric. They were made at two different factories:
- Vulcan Foundry
- Robert Stephenson and Hawthorns
Building these trains took several years. The first ones were made in 1957. Production continued until 1962, and then a second batch was built from 1966 to 1968.
What Did They Do?
Class 20 locomotives were very useful for British Rail. They were often used for:
- Pulling freight trains (trains carrying goods).
- Moving wagons around in train yards.
- Sometimes, they even pulled passenger trains, especially on special trips.
They were known for being tough and reliable. This made them a popular choice for many different jobs on the railway.
Images for kids
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Two Class 20s, coupled nose to nose, hauling a freight train in 1986
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Two Class 20s working a passenger train
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20 168 shunting JPA cement wagons at Earles Sidings in Derbyshire on 31 May 2017.
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Harry Needle Railroad Company 20 311 at Derby in 2014
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Harry Needle Railroad Company 20 901 in GB Railfreight livery in 2014
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Corus 81 (ex-BR 20 056) at Barrow Hill Engine Shed, 9 July 2006
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