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British Rail Class 450 facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The British Rail Class 450 is a type of electric multiple unit (EMU) train. It started service in 2003. These trains are part of the Siemens Desiro family. They are often called the 'Blue Desiro' because of their design. Class 450 trains are used for journeys outside big cities. They run mainly on the South West Trains network.

Quick facts for kids
British Rail Class 450 Desiro
450083 at Waterloo.jpg
450083 at Waterloo
In service 2003–
Manufacturer Siemens AG
Family name Desiro
Constructed 2001–2006
Entered service 2003–2006
Number built 127 trainsets
Formation 4 cars per trainset
Fleet numbers 450001–450042 450071–450127 450543–450570
Capacity 450/0 24 first class, 240 standard class per trainset - 450/5 240 standard class per trainset
Operator(s) South West Trains
Specifications
Car body construction Aluminium
Car length 20.4 m (67 ft)
Width 2.796 m (9.17 ft)
Doors Plug sliding 1/4 and 3/4 position
Articulated sections Inter-unit and inter-vehicle flexible diaphragm
Maximum speed 100 mph (160 km/h)
Weight Total: 170 tonnes
Power supply Third rail
Electric system(s) 750V DC
Braking system(s) Air, regenerative
450 060 and another 450
450060 and another Class 450 train. You can see the flat roof where a pantograph could be added later.
SWT Classes 444 and 450 at London Waterloo
Class 450 train 450040 at London Waterloo on 21 August 2007, next to a Class 444 train.

What is the Class 450 Desiro?

The British Rail Class 450 is an electric multiple unit (EMU). This means it's a train made of several carriages that are permanently joined together. Each carriage has its own electric motors. This allows the train to be driven from either end. The Class 450 trains get their power from a third rail. This is an extra rail on the track that carries electricity.

How the Class 450 Gets Power

These trains use a 750V DC power supply. This electricity comes from the third rail system. The Class 450 trains were built so they could be changed later. They could be updated to use AC power from overhead lines. This would involve adding a device called a pantograph to the roof. A pantograph collects electricity from overhead wires. However, no Class 450 trains have been changed this way yet.

Key Features of the Class 450

The Class 450 trains are part of the Siemens Desiro family. This means they share a similar design with other modern trains. Each Class 450 train is made up of four carriages. They can reach a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).

The trains offer both Standard and First Class seating. This makes them suitable for different types of passengers. The Class 450 is designed for outer suburban services. This means they travel between larger towns and cities and their surrounding areas.



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