Vossloh DE 18 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vossloh DE 18 |
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| Power type | Diesel-electric |
|---|---|
| Builder |  Vossloh, Kiel |
| Build date | 2010 - present |
| Total production | 3 (as of March 2012) |
| UIC classification | Bo'Bo' |
| Gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) |
| Wheel diameter | 1,000 mm (39.37 in) (new) 920 mm (36.22 in) (worn) |
| Minimum curve | 55 m (180 ft 5 in) |
| Length | 17.00 m (55 ft 9 in) |
| Width | 3.08 m (10 ft 1 in) |
| Height | 4.31 m (14 ft 2 in) |
| Locomotive weight | 80–90 t (79–89 long tons; 88–99 short tons) |
| Fuel capacity | 4,100 L (900 imp gal; 1,100 US gal) |
| Engine RPM range | 1800 rpm |
| Engine type | MTU 12V4000R43L |
| Power output | 1,800 kW (2,400 hp) |
| Tractive effort | 291 kN (65,000 lbf) |
| Locale | Germany |
| Disposition | in test |
The Vossloh DE 18 is a special type of train engine called a diesel-electric locomotive. This means it uses a diesel engine to create electricity, which then powers electric motors to make the train move. It's like a hybrid car, but for trains! This powerful engine was the first new diesel-electric locomotive built in the city of Kiel, Germany, since 1993.
The DE 18 is also known for sharing many parts with another type of train engine, the diesel-hydraulic G 18. About 60% of their parts are the same. A diesel-hydraulic engine uses its diesel engine to power a special fluid system that turns the wheels, instead of using electricity.
Contents
What is the Vossloh DE 18?
The Vossloh DE 18 is a modern train engine designed for many different jobs. It's built by the company Vossloh in Kiel, Germany. These engines are strong and can pull heavy loads, making them useful for moving goods around.
How Does a Diesel-Electric Locomotive Work?
A diesel-electric locomotive like the DE 18 has two main parts that make it go. First, there's a big diesel engine, similar to what you might find in a large truck, but much more powerful. This engine doesn't directly turn the wheels. Instead, it spins a generator.
The generator then creates electricity. This electricity is sent to electric motors, which are connected to the train's wheels. These electric motors are what actually turn the wheels and make the train move. This system is very efficient and gives the train a lot of power to start moving and pull heavy wagons.
Key Features of the DE 18 Locomotive
The Vossloh DE 18 has some impressive features. It can reach a top speed of about 120 kilometers per hour (about 75 miles per hour). It weighs between 80 and 90 tons, which is like weighing 80 to 90 small cars! It's also about 17 meters (56 feet) long.
The engine uses a special wheel arrangement called "Bo-Bo." This means it has two sets of wheels, and each set has two axles. All of these axles are powered by their own electric motors, giving the locomotive excellent grip and power on the tracks.
Where is the Vossloh DE 18 Used?
The first version of the DE 18 locomotive was shown to the public at a big event called InnoTrans in 2010. InnoTrans is a huge trade fair in Germany where companies show off new railway technology. At this event, the DE 18 was displayed alongside a smaller, diesel-hydraulic engine called the Vossloh G 12.
Who Uses the DE 18?
The very first company to order the DE 18 was BASF. BASF is a very large chemical company that needs powerful trains to move materials around its big factories. In December 2011, BASF ordered two DE 18 locomotives to help with their operations. These engines are perfect for industrial sites because they are strong and reliable.
