British Rail DHP1 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clayton DHP1 |
|
| Power type | Diesel-hydraulic |
|---|---|
| Builder | Clayton Equipment Company |
| Build date | 1965 |
| UIC classification | B'B' |
| Locomotive weight | 56 long tons (57 t) |
| Prime mover | Rolls-Royce, 2 off |
| Transmission | Hydraulic |
| Top speed | 90 mph (140 km/h) |
| Power output | 750 hp (560 kW) × 2 |
| Career | British Railways |
| Disposition | Scrapped |
The DHP1 was a special kind of train engine, known as a Diesel Hydraulic Prototype number 1. It was a test model, or "prototype," built in 1965 by the Clayton Equipment Company. This powerful engine was designed to show British Railways what Clayton could do.
Contents
What was the DHP1?
The DHP1 was a Type 3 mainline diesel locomotive. This means it was a medium-sized diesel engine built for the main railway lines. It used a "diesel-hydraulic" system, which is a way of moving the train using a diesel engine connected to a hydraulic (liquid-based) transmission, similar to how some car gearboxes work.
Why was it built?
Clayton built the DHP1 to prove their skills to British Railways. They wanted to show that their new engine could handle many different jobs. The DHP1 was designed for "mixed traffic" work. This means it could pull both passenger trains and freight (goods) trains. It even had special equipment to heat passenger coaches with steam, making journeys more comfortable for people.
What did the DHP1 look like?
This unique locomotive had a striking appearance. It was painted bright red, which made it stand out on the tracks. The upper part of the driver's cab, where the train driver sat, was painted a creamy color. This two-tone paint job gave the DHP1 a distinctive look.
What happened to the DHP1?
Even though the DHP1 was a prototype built to show off new technology, it was eventually taken out of service. Like many test models, it was later "scrapped," meaning it was taken apart and its materials were recycled.
