British Rail Class D3/12 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Southern Railway diesels 1–3British Rail Class D3/12 |
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| Power type | Diesel-electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | Southern Railway’s Ashford Works |
| Build date | 1937 |
| Total production | 3 |
| Configuration | 0-6-0 DE |
| UIC classification | C |
| Gauge | 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) |
| Wheel diameter | 4 ft 6 in (1.372 m) |
| Locomotive weight | 55.25 long tons (56.14 t) |
| Prime mover | English Electric 6K |
| Traction motors | English Electric, 2 off |
| Multiple working | Not fitted |
| Top speed | 25 mph (40 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 350 bhp (260 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 30,000 lbf (133.4 kN) |
| Train heating | None |
| Career | Southern Railway, British Railways |
| Class | BR: D3/12; later 3/9A |
| Number | SR: 1–3; BR: 15201–15203 |
| Retired | 1964 |
| Disposition | All scrapped |
The British Rail Class D3/12 was a type of diesel-electric train. Only three of these trains were ever built. They were designed to move other trains around, especially in busy areas like train yards.
These special trains were built by the Southern Railway in 1937. They were given numbers 1, 2, and 3. This numbering system was different from the steam trains the railway already had.
What was the D3/12 Train?
The D3/12 trains were known as "shunters." This means their main job was to move railway cars and other trains short distances. They helped organize trains in depots and freight yards.
They used a diesel engine to power an electric generator. This generator then supplied electricity to motors that turned the wheels. This is why they are called "diesel-electric" trains.
How were these trains built?
The Southern Railway built these three trains at their own Ashford Works. This was a factory where the railway made and repaired its own trains.
Each train had an English Electric 6K engine. This engine gave them enough power to pull heavy loads slowly. Their top speed was about 25 miles per hour (40 km/h).
What happened to them?
After 1948, the railways in Britain became one big company called British Railways. The D3/12 trains were then given new numbers: 15201, 15202, and 15203.
These trains worked for many years. However, by 1964, all three D3/12 trains were taken out of service. They were then scrapped, meaning they were taken apart and their materials reused.
Even though only three D3/12 trains were made, they were important. They helped lead to the creation of 26 similar trains later on. These newer trains were known as the British Rail Class 12.
