British Rail Class 80 facts for kids
The Class 80 was a unique electric locomotive used by British Rail. It was a "prototype," which means it was the first of its kind, built to test new ideas. This powerful engine was designed to run on 25,000 volts of alternating current (AC) electricity.
It was built by a company called Metropolitan-Vickers. Interestingly, it didn't start out as an electric train! It was first built as a "gas turbine-electric locomotive" and had the number 18100. Later, British Rail changed it into an electric locomotive and gave it new numbers: E1000 and then E2001.
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 80 |
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| Power type | Electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | Metropolitan-Vickers |
| Build date | 1951; rebuilt 1958 |
| Configuration | A1A-A1A |
| UIC classification | (A1A)'(A1A)' |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 3 ft 8 in (1.12 m) |
| Length | 56 ft 6 in (17.22 m) |
| Width | 8 ft 8+1⁄4 in (2.65 m) |
| Height | 12 ft 10 in (3.91 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 109 long tons (110.7 t) |
| Electric system(s) | 25 kV AC |
| Current collection method | Stone-Faiveley ‘V’-type pantograph, 1 off |
| Traction motors | Metropolitan-Vickers, 4 off |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Tractive effort | 40,000 lbf (178,000 N) |
| Train heating | Electric Train Heating |
| Train brakes | Vacuum |
| Career | British Rail |
| Number | E1000; E2001 from 1959 |
| Axle load class | Route availability |
| Retired | April 1968 |
| Disposition | Sold for scrap to J. Cashmore, Great Bridge, 1973 |
The First Design
The Class 80 was originally built in 1951. It was first known as a "gas turbine-electric locomotive." This means it used a special engine, like a jet engine, to generate electricity to power its wheels. It was given the number 18100.
Why it Changed
In 1958, British Rail decided to rebuild this locomotive. They wanted to test out new electric train technology. So, they changed it from a gas turbine engine to a fully electric one. After this change, it was given the new number E1000. Later, its number was changed again to E2001.
Life as an Electric Locomotive
As an electric locomotive, the Class 80 could reach a top speed of 90 miles per hour (about 145 km/h). It was quite powerful, with a pulling force of 40,000 pounds. It collected electricity from overhead wires using a device called a pantograph.
Retirement
The Class 80 served British Rail until April 1968. After its working life, it was sold for scrap in 1973. Even though it was a prototype and only one was ever built, it helped British Rail learn a lot about electric trains.
Images for kids
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When this photo was taken in 1969 the class 80 was stored on the disused Great Central near Akeman Street railway station.
