British Rail Class D3/5 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class D3/5 |
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| Power type | Diesel-electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | British Railways’ Darlington Works |
| Build date | 1955 |
| Total production | 15 |
| 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 | 47.00 long tons (47.75 t) |
| Prime mover | Lister-Blackstone ER6T |
| Traction motors | BTH, 2 off |
| Multiple working | Not fitted |
| Top speed | 20 mph (32 km/h) |
| Power output | Engine: 350 bhp (261 kW) |
| Tractive effort | 35,000 lbf (155.7 kN) |
| Train heating | None |
| Train brakes | Vacuum |
| Career | British Railways |
| Class | DEJ6; later D3/5; later 3/1D; no TOPS class |
| Number | 13152–13166; later D3152–D3156 |
| Axle load class | Route availability |
| Retired | 1967 |
| Disposition | All scrapped |
The British Rail Class D3/5 was a special kind of train engine called a shunting locomotive. It was built by British Rail at their Darlington Works in England in 1955. These engines ran on diesel power and were used before a new numbering system called TOPS came along. There were 15 of these engines, and they were first numbered from 13152 to 13166. Later, their numbers changed to D3152 to D3166.
Contents
Meet the British Rail Class D3/5 Locomotive
The Class D3/5 was a small but mighty locomotive. Its main job was to move railway wagons and carriages around. These engines were very important for keeping train stations and freight yards running smoothly. They helped put trains together and move them to the right tracks.
What Was a Shunting Locomotive?
A shunting locomotive, also known as a switcher, is like a busy bee in a railway yard. Its job is to move individual train cars or short groups of cars. This helps to build up longer trains or to move cars to different loading areas. Shunting locomotives don't usually travel long distances. Instead, they work hard in busy railway yards. They need to be strong and able to change direction quickly.
Building the D3/5: Darlington Works
The D3/5 locomotives were built by British Railways. They were made at a famous factory called Darlington Works. This factory was in the town of Darlington, England. Darlington Works had a long history of building many different types of locomotives. It was known for its skilled workers and quality craftsmanship. Building these engines was an important part of British railway history.
Power and Performance
The Class D3/5 was a Diesel-electric locomotive. This means it used a diesel engine to power an electric generator. The generator then made electricity, which powered electric motors connected to the wheels. This system allowed the locomotive to move heavy loads slowly and precisely. It was perfect for the stop-and-go work of shunting.
The D3/5 had a Lister-Blackstone ER6T engine. This engine produced about 350 horsepower. While this might not sound like a lot compared to big passenger trains, it was plenty for shunting. These engines could pull very heavy loads over short distances. Their top speed was around 20 miles per hour (32 km/h). This speed was ideal for working safely in busy railway yards.
The End of the Line
The British Rail Class D3/5 locomotives worked for about 12 years. They were retired from service in 1967. After they were retired, all 15 of these locomotives were scrapped. This means they were taken apart and their materials were recycled. Even though they are no longer around, they played an important role in the history of British railways. They helped keep goods moving and trains running on time.
