British Rail Class D3/10 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class D3/10 |
|
| Power type | Diesel-electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | English Electric at Hawthorn Leslie |
| Serial number | HL: 3853 |
| Build date | 1935 |
| Total production | 1 |
| Configuration | 0-6-0 DE |
| UIC classification | C |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 4 ft 0+1⁄2 in (1.232 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 51.55 long tons (52.38 t) |
| Prime mover | English Electric 6K |
| Traction motors | English Electric, 2 off |
| Multiple working | Not fitted |
| Top speed | 19 mph (31 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 350 bhp (261 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 30,240 lbf (134.5 kN) |
| Train heating | None |
| Career | Great Western Railway, British Railways |
| Class | BR: D3/10; later 3/11A |
| Number | GWR: 2; BR: 15100 |
| Axle load class | Route availability 5 |
| Retired | Apri 1965 |
| Disposition | Scrapped |
The British Rail Class D3/10 was a very special train engine. It was the only one of its kind ever built! This powerful engine was ordered by the Great Western Railway in England. Later, it was used by British Railways.
This locomotive was a diesel-powered engine. This means it used a diesel engine to create electricity. That electricity then powered motors that turned the wheels. It was built before a new numbering system called TOPS was introduced for trains.
Contents
What was the British Rail Class D3/10?
The Class D3/10 was a unique locomotive because only one was ever made. It was designed to pull trains and move goods around. It started its life working for the Great Western Railway, a famous train company in England.
After a few years, all the railway companies in Britain became one big company called British Railways. So, the D3/10 then became part of the British Railways fleet. It was given the number 15100.
Who built this unique locomotive?
This special engine was built in 1935. It was a team effort! The main parts, especially the diesel engine, were made by a company called English Electric. The final assembly of the locomotive happened at the Hawthorn Leslie company.
Hawthorn Leslie was a well-known builder of locomotives and ships. They put together the different parts to create this one-of-a-kind diesel-electric engine.
How powerful was it?
The British Rail Class D3/10 was quite strong for its time. Its diesel engine could produce about 350 horsepower. This power allowed it to pull heavy loads.
It wasn't the fastest train, but it was built for pulling, not for speed. Its top speed was around 19 miles per hour (about 30 kilometers per hour). It weighed about 51.55 long tons, which is roughly the same as 52 large elephants!
What happened to it?
The Class D3/10 worked for many years on the railways. It served both the Great Western Railway and British Railways. However, like many older engines, its time eventually came to an end.
The locomotive was retired from service in April 1965. After its retirement, it was unfortunately scrapped. This means it was taken apart, and its materials were recycled. Even though it's gone, its story as a unique piece of railway history lives on.
