British Rail Class 41 (HST) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 41 (HST) |
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| Power type | Diesel-elctric |
|---|---|
| Builder | BREL Crewe Works |
| Build date | 1972 |
| Total production | 2 |
| Configuration | Bo-Bo |
| UIC classification | B'B' |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 3 ft 4 in (1.016 m) |
| Wheelbase | 42 ft 4 in (12.90 m) |
| Length | 56 ft 4 in (17.17 m) |
| Width | 8 ft 11 in (2.72 m) |
| Height | 18 ft 11 in (5.77 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 68.5 tonnes (67.4 long tons; 75.5 short tons) |
| Prime mover | Paxman Valenta 12RP200L |
| Traction motors | Brush TMH68-46, frame mounted |
| Multiple working | Within class only |
| Top speed | 125 mph (201 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 2,500 bhp (1,864 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 17,980 lbf (80.0 kN) |
| Train heating | Electric Train Heat |
| Train brakes | Air |
| Career | British Rail |
| Number | 41001–41002; later ADB975812–813 |
| Axle load class | Route availability 6 |
| Disposition | to Research Centre Derby, November 1976, withdrawn January 1982 |
The British Rail Class 41 was the first name given to the special engines that pulled the original High Speed Train. These trains were designed to travel very fast across Britain. The Class 41 engines were later renamed as part of a larger train set called Class 252. This happened because the whole train, including the engines and carriages, was seen as one complete unit.
These powerful engines used a special design called Bo-Bo. This means they had two sets of wheels, with each set having two powered axles. This design helped them move quickly and smoothly.
Contents
What Was the Class 41?
The Class 41 was a type of diesel-electric locomotive. This means it used a diesel engine to create electricity, which then powered electric motors to turn the wheels. Only two of these special engines were ever built. They were made in 1972 at the BREL Crewe Works, a famous place where many British trains were constructed.
Why Was It Built?
The main reason for building the Class 41 was to test out new ideas for a super-fast train. British Rail wanted a train that could travel at 125 miles per hour (201 km/h) or even faster. This would make journeys much quicker for passengers. The Class 41 engines were the heart of this experiment, pulling the first High Speed Train prototypes.
How Did It Work?
Each Class 41 engine had a powerful Paxman Valenta 12RP200L engine. This engine generated 2,500 horsepower! This huge amount of power was needed to get the train up to its high speeds. The electricity from the engine powered Brush TMH68-46 motors, which were connected to the wheels.
Life of the Class 41 Engines
The two Class 41 engines, numbered 41001 and 41002, were used for testing. They helped engineers learn how to build and operate high-speed trains safely and efficiently. They were a key part of developing the successful InterCity 125, which became a very popular train in Britain.
What Happened to Them?
After their important testing work was done, the Class 41 engines were sent to the Research Centre in Derby in November 1976. They were officially taken out of service in January 1982. Even though only two were made, their role was vital in shaping the future of high-speed rail travel in the UK.
Images for kids
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The front view of 41001, showing its sleek design.
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A side and rear view of 41001, highlighting its long body.
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41001 on display in York.
