British Rail Class 70 facts for kids
The British Rail Class 70 was a special type of electric locomotive used on railways in Britain. Only three of these powerful trains were ever built. They were designed to run on electricity, collecting it from a "third rail" on the tracks. These locomotives were known for their unique design and their role in moving goods and passengers.
Quick facts for kids Southern Railway Class CC ElectricsBritish Rail Class 70 |
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| Power type | Electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | SR Ashford Works (2) BR Brighton Works (1) |
| Build date | 1941, 1945, 1948 |
| Total production | 3 |
| Configuration | Co-Co |
| UIC classification | Co'Co' |
| Wheel diameter | 3 ft 6 in (1.067 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 20001/2: 99.70 long tons (101 t) 20003: 104.70 long tons (106 t) |
| Current collection method | Third rail (mainline), Pantograph (sidings) |
| Traction motors | English Electric 245, 6 off |
| Top speed | 75 mph (121 km/h) |
| Power output | 1,470 hp (1,100 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 20001/2: 40,000 lbf (178 kN) 20003: 45,000 lbf (200 kN) |
| Train brakes | Vacuum, Air, Electro-Pneumatic |
| Career | Southern Railway British Railways |
| Power class | BR: 7P5F |
| Number | SR: CC1, CC2 BR: 20001–20003 |
| Retired | 1968 |
| Disposition | All scrapped in 1969 |
Contents
What Were the Class 70 Locomotives?
The British Rail Class 70 was a small group of three powerful electric locomotives. They were designed to pull trains using electricity. These locomotives were special because they collected power from a "third rail" on the ground.
They had a unique wheel arrangement called Co-Co. This means they had two sets of three axles, with each axle powered by its own motor. This design helped them pull heavy loads.
Building These Powerful Electric Trains
The first two locomotives, named CC1 and CC2, were built by the Southern Railway. They were made at their Ashford Works. CC1 was finished in 1941, and CC2 followed in 1945.
The electrical parts for these trains were designed by Alfred Raworth. The overall look of the train was created by Oliver Bulleid. CC2 had some small changes from the first design.
The third locomotive, numbered 20003, was built later in 1948. This one was made by British Railways at their Brighton Works.
How They Got Their Power
These locomotives were electric, meaning they ran on electricity instead of diesel or steam. They collected their power from a third rail. This is an extra rail alongside the main tracks that carries electricity.
The Class 70s used DC electricity, usually between 660 and 750 volts. This system was common on the Southern Railway's lines. They could also use a pantograph (a device on the roof) when in sidings or depots.
Life on the Tracks and Retirement
The Class 70 locomotives were used for many years on the British railway network. They were important for moving trains, especially in the south of England where the third rail system was used.
However, by 1968, all three locomotives were retired from service. They had served their purpose for several decades. In 1969, sadly, all three Class 70 locomotives were scrapped. This means they were taken apart and their materials reused.
