01.05.07
Metronet deploys Tube Lines' new high-output track renewals train
The first rail and sleeper delivery train (RSDT) commissioned specially for London Underground track renewals has begun work, supplied for Metronet Rail/GBRailfreight's new engineering train fleet by Tube Lines.
The RSDT, similar to a ‘Slinger', has an improved capability over comparable vehicles used on Network Rail and is designed to carry and deliver up to ten 216m-long ‘strings' of long welded rail and up to 1,470 concrete sleepers – enough for 1,000m of track renewal in one load.
The RSDT is 300m long and comprises 13 specially modified FEA donor wagons supplied by GBRf as part of its 10-year, £80 million contract with Metronet. Trans Plant, the division of Tube Lines providing specialist engineering trains to the rail industry commissioned and project managed the design and build of this highly specialised train.
During the weekend of 20-22 April the RSDT was used to deliver sleepers directly to their required positions, correctly spaced, during 780m of track renewals on the Metropolitan line at Pinner. It successfully laid sleepers through the station platform, a complex obstacle not normally handled by similar trains.
Stephen Hall, chief programmes officer at Metronet said: “This new train assures the continued high-output capability of the engineering fleet GBRf is providing for Metronet, increasing the pace of renewals on London's Tube.”
Richard Parr, general manager for Tube Lines' Trans Plant division said: “Our customers often challenge us to identify innovative ways to help them work faster and more efficiently. We commissioned the RSDT's unique design and had it manufactured to boost track replacement. It's now helping to increase productivity on the London Underground."
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