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British Rail Class 77 facts for kids

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British Rail Class 77
Preserved locomotive, no. 27000 in original black livery.
Power type Electric
Builder BR Gorton Works
Build date 1953–1954
Total production 7
Configuration Co+Co
Gauge 4 ft 8 12 in (1,435 mm)
Wheel diameter 4 ft 2 in (1.270 m)
Length 59 ft 0 in (17.98 m)
Locomotive weight 102.5 long tons (104.1 t)
Electric system(s) 1500 V DC
Current collection method Pantograph, 2 off
Traction motors Metropolitan Vickers
Top speed 90 mph (145 km/h)
Power output 2,490 hp (1,857 kW)
Tractive effort 45,000 lbf (200 kN)
Train heating Steam generator
Locomotive brakes Air and electrical regenerative
Locomotive brakeforce 85 long tons-force (847 kN)
Train brakes Vacuum
Career British Railways
Number 27000–27006
Retired September 1968
Disposition All sold to Netherlands as NS 1500 Class

The British Rail Class 77, also known as Class EM2, was a special type of electric locomotive. These powerful engines were built in the 1950s to pull trains on a challenging railway line called the Woodhead Line. This line connected the big cities of Manchester and Sheffield in England.


Meet the Class 77 Locomotives

Imagine a time when trains needed a lot of power to climb steep hills! The Class 77 locomotives were designed for just that. They were built by a company called Metropolitan-Vickers between 1953 and 1954. Only seven of these unique engines were ever made.

Power and Design

These locomotives were "electric," meaning they got their power from overhead wires. They used 1500 V DC electricity. This was collected by special arms on the roof called pantographs.

The Class 77s were very strong. They could produce about 2,490 horsepower. This allowed them to pull heavy passenger and freight trains. Their top speed was around 90 miles per hour (145 km/h).

Life on the Woodhead Line

The main job for these locomotives was to work on the Woodhead Line. This railway line was famous for its long tunnels and steep hills. The Class 77s were perfect for this tough job. They helped move people and goods between Manchester and Sheffield for many years.

End of an Era

By September 1968, the Class 77 locomotives were no longer needed in Britain. All seven of them were sold to the Netherlands. There, they were given a new life and became known as the NS 1500 Class. They continued to serve in the Netherlands for many more years.

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