British Rail Class 26 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids BRCW Type 2British Rail Class 26 |
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| Power type | Diesel-elctric |
|---|---|
| Builder | Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company |
| Serial number | DEL45–DEL91 |
| Build date | 1958–1959 |
| Total production | 47 |
| 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 | 5 chains (100 m) |
| Wheelbase | 39 ft 0 in (11.89 m) |
| Length | 50 ft 9 in (15.47 m) |
| Width | 8 ft 10 in (2.69 m) |
| Height | 12 ft 8 in (3.86 m) |
| Locomotive weight | D5300–D5319: 77.5 long tons (78.7 t) D5320–D5346: 74 long tons (75.2 t) |
| Fuel capacity | 600 imp gal (2,700 L; 720 US gal) |
| Prime mover | Sulzer 6LDA-28 |
| Transmission | DC generator, DC traction motors |
| Multiple working | ★ Blue Star |
| Top speed | 80 mph (130 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 1,160 hp (865 kW) At rail: 900 hp (671 kW) |
| Tractive effort | Maximum: 42,000 lbf (187 kN) Continuous: 30,000 lbf (133 kN) |
| Train heating | Steam generator |
| Locomotive brakeforce | 34 long tons-force (340 kN) |
| Train brakes | Vacuum |
| Career | British Railways |
| Number | D5300–D5346; later 26001–26046 |
| Axle load class | D5300–D5319: Route availability 6 D5320–D5346: Route availability 5 |
The British Rail Class 26 was a type of diesel locomotive. These powerful trains were first known as BRCW Type 2. They were built by the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company (BRCW). This company was located in Smethwick, England.
These locomotives were made between 1958 and 1959. A total of 47 of these trains were built. They served for many years on Britain's railways. The last Class 26 trains were taken out of service in 1993.
Contents
Meet the Class 26 Trains
The Class 26 locomotives were a key part of British railways. They helped move people and goods across the country. These trains used a diesel engine to create electricity. This electricity then powered the wheels. This is why they are called "diesel-electric" locomotives.
Why "Type 2"?
When British Rail started using diesel trains, they gave them "Type" numbers. These numbers showed how powerful the trains were. Type 1 was the least powerful. Type 5 was the most powerful. The Class 26 was a "Type 2" locomotive. This meant it was a medium-power train. It was good for both passenger and freight duties.
How Were They Built?
The Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company built all 47 of these trains. They were a well-known company for making railway equipment. Each locomotive was carefully put together. They were designed to be strong and reliable. The first train, D5300, was finished in 1958.
What Did They Do?
The Class 26 trains worked hard for many years. They were often used in Scotland. They pulled both passenger trains and freight trains. Freight trains carry goods like coal or other materials. Passenger trains carry people. These trains were known for their steady performance. They helped modernize Britain's railway system.
Life on the Tracks
The Class 26 locomotives had a long working life. They were in service for over 30 years. Over time, their numbers changed. For example, D5300 became 26001. This was part of a new numbering system for British Rail. Even after many years, some of these trains are still around today. They are now preserved in museums. People can visit them to see a piece of railway history.
Images for kids
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The first of the class, D5300 at Harringay in 1959, wearing original livery.
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26041 at Carlisle in 1991
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