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==Accidents==
==Accidents==
On 28 February 2001, 66,521 was involved in the 2001 [[Great Heck rail crash]] which resulted in 10 deaths including the driver Stephen Dunn.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/1703935.stm |title=Tragic results of driver fatigue |date=13 December 2001 |publisher=BBC News}}</ref> The locomotive was written off and scrapped as a result of major damage sustained in the accident.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.railuk.info/members/diesel/getloco.php?item=%2066521| title=UKRail.co.uk page on 66521}}</ref>
On 28 February 2001, 66521 was involved in the 2001 [[Great Heck rail crash]] which resulted in 10 deaths including the driver Stephen Dunn.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/1703935.stm |title=Tragic results of driver fatigue |date=13 December 2001 |publisher=BBC News}}</ref> The locomotive was written off and scrapped as a result of major damage sustained in the accident.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.railuk.info/members/diesel/getloco.php?item=%2066521| title=UKRail.co.uk page on 66521}}</ref>


On 9 February 2006, a freight train hauled by [[DB Cargo UK|English Welsh & Scottish]] 66,017, [[derailment|derailed]] at [[Brentingby|Brentingby Junction]] near [[Melton Mowbray]]. Having passed a signal at danger, the locomotive and the first three wagons were derailed at [[catch points]] at the end of the Up Goods Loop. There were no injuries.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/docsummary.php?docID=1019| title=Rail Accident Report: Derailment of a freight train at Brentingby Junction, near Melton Mowbray – 9 February 2006| publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch| date=January 2007| accessdate=22 June 2011}}</ref>
On 9 February 2006, a freight train hauled by [[DB Cargo UK|English Welsh & Scottish]] 66017, [[derailment|derailed]] at [[Brentingby|Brentingby Junction]] near [[Melton Mowbray]]. Having passed a signal at danger, the locomotive and the first three wagons were derailed at [[catch points]] at the end of the Up Goods Loop. There were no injuries.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/docsummary.php?docID=1019| title=Rail Accident Report: Derailment of a freight train at Brentingby Junction, near Melton Mowbray – 9 February 2006| publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch| date=January 2007| accessdate=22 June 2011}}</ref>


[[File:Derailed locomotive at Carrbridge - geograph.org.uk - 1679729.jpg|thumb|right|66&nbsp;048 lies in the snow and trees following the Carrbridge derailment.]]
[[File:Derailed locomotive at Carrbridge - geograph.org.uk - 1679729.jpg|thumb|right|66&nbsp;048 lies in the snow and trees following the Carrbridge derailment.]]
On 4 January 2010, a freight train hauled by 66,048 derailed at [[Carrbridge railway station|Carrbridge]] in snowy weather, blocking the [[Highland Main Line]].<ref name=BBC844120>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/8441120.stm |title=Snow derailment problems continue |publisher=BBC News |date=4 January 2010 |accessdate=5 January 2010}}</ref> Having passed a signal at danger the train was derailed at [[Catch points|trap points]],<ref name=RAIB>{{cite web|url=http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/110224_R032011_Carrbridge.pdf |title=Investigation into an accident involving a freight train at Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, on 4 January 2010 |publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch |accessdate=16 January 2010}}</ref> subsequently falling down an embankment into trees and injuring the two crew members. The locomotive was hauling container flats from [[Inverness]] to Mossend Yard on behalf of [[Stobart Rail Freight|Stobart Rail]].<ref>{{cite news|date=13 January 2010|title=Probes into SPADs in Devon and Scotland|magazine=[[RAIL Magazine]]|issue=635|pages=8–9|publisher=[[Bauer Media Group]]}}</ref> The line was reopened on 12 January.<ref name=NR>{{cite web|url=http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/content/detail.aspx?ReleaseID=4944&NewsAreaID=2 |title=INVERNESS-PERTH ROUTE REOPENS AFTER A WEEK OF ENDEAVOUR |publisher=Network Rail | author=<!-- Staff writer(s); No by-line.--> |date=13 January 2010 |accessdate=11 June 2010}}</ref> The body of this loco is in Stoke-on-Trent.{{citation needed|date=June 2018}}
On 4 January 2010, a freight train hauled by 66048 derailed at [[Carrbridge railway station|Carrbridge]] in snowy weather, blocking the [[Highland Main Line]].<ref name=BBC844120>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/8441120.stm |title=Snow derailment problems continue |publisher=BBC News |date=4 January 2010 |accessdate=5 January 2010}}</ref> Having passed a signal at danger the train was derailed at [[Catch points|trap points]],<ref name=RAIB>{{cite web|url=http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/110224_R032011_Carrbridge.pdf |title=Investigation into an accident involving a freight train at Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, on 4 January 2010 |publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch |accessdate=16 January 2010}}</ref> subsequently falling down an embankment into trees and injuring the two crew members. The locomotive was hauling container flats from [[Inverness]] to Mossend Yard on behalf of [[Stobart Rail Freight|Stobart Rail]].<ref>{{cite news|date=13 January 2010|title=Probes into SPADs in Devon and Scotland|magazine=[[RAIL Magazine]]|issue=635|pages=8–9|publisher=[[Bauer Media Group]]}}</ref> The line was reopened on 12 January.<ref name=NR>{{cite web|url=http://www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk/content/detail.aspx?ReleaseID=4944&NewsAreaID=2 |title=INVERNESS-PERTH ROUTE REOPENS AFTER A WEEK OF ENDEAVOUR |publisher=Network Rail | author=<!-- Staff writer(s); No by-line.--> |date=13 January 2010 |accessdate=11 June 2010}}</ref> The body of this loco is in Stoke-on-Trent.{{citation needed|date=June 2018}}


On 21 November 2011, 66,111 derailed between Exeter Central and Exeter St David's on working an engineering works service.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/VIDEO-Derailed-train-causes-services-cancelled/story-13940812-detail/story.html | title=VIDEO: Derailed train causes services to be cancelled | work=Exeter Express and Echo | date=25 November 2011 | author=<!-- Staff writer(s); No by-line.--> | accessdate=30 December 2013}}</ref>
On 21 November 2011, 66111 derailed between Exeter Central and Exeter St David's on working an engineering works service.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/VIDEO-Derailed-train-causes-services-cancelled/story-13940812-detail/story.html | title=VIDEO: Derailed train causes services to be cancelled | work=Exeter Express and Echo | date=25 November 2011 | author=<!-- Staff writer(s); No by-line.--> | accessdate=30 December 2013}}</ref>


On 28 June 2012, GBRf operated 66,734 derailed at [[Loch Treig]] whilst working the 6S45 [[North Blyth]] to Fort William Alcan Tanks.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.wnxx.com/images/plogger/index.php?level=album&id=342 |title=120628 : 66734 Loch Treig Derailment |publisher=WNXX |date=June 2012 |accessdate=29 June 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/topics/weather/9364866/Man-winched-to-safety-in-Scotland-after-floods-derail-train.html |title=Man winched to safety in Scotland after floods derail train |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=29 June 2012}}</ref> Due to its position and the environmental risks associated with recovery, after agreement from owners Porterbrook it was cut-up on site and the mechanics recycled as spare parts.<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.railwaymagazine.co.uk/news/derailed-class-66-to-be-cut-up-on-site|title=Derailed Class 66 to be cut up on site|author=Chris Milner |magazine=[[Railway Magazine]]|date=31 January 2013|accessdate=26 December 2013}}</ref>
On 28 June 2012, GBRf operated 66734 derailed at [[Loch Treig]] whilst working the 6S45 [[North Blyth]] to Fort William Alcan Tanks.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.wnxx.com/images/plogger/index.php?level=album&id=342 |title=120628 : 66734 Loch Treig Derailment |publisher=WNXX |date=June 2012 |accessdate=29 June 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/topics/weather/9364866/Man-winched-to-safety-in-Scotland-after-floods-derail-train.html |title=Man winched to safety in Scotland after floods derail train |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=29 June 2012}}</ref> Due to its position and the environmental risks associated with recovery, after agreement from owners Porterbrook it was cut-up on site and the mechanics recycled as spare parts.<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.railwaymagazine.co.uk/news/derailed-class-66-to-be-cut-up-on-site|title=Derailed Class 66 to be cut up on site|author=Chris Milner |magazine=[[Railway Magazine]]|date=31 January 2013|accessdate=26 December 2013}}</ref>


On 1 August 2015, 66,428 was hauling an engineering train that ran into the rear of another engineering train at [[Logan, Ayrshire]]. It was severely damaged.<ref name=Logan>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/collision-at-logan |title=Collision near Logan |publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch |date=14 August 2015 |accessdate=17 August 2015}}</ref> The train that was run into was hauled by 66&nbsp;305.<ref name=Loganreport>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/537117/R132016_160713_Logan.pdf |title=Freight train collision near Logan, East Ayrshire 1 August 2015 |publisher=Rail Accidents Investigation Branch |date=13 July 2016 |accessdate=16 July 2016}}</ref>
On 1 August 2015, 66428 was hauling an engineering train that ran into the rear of another engineering train at [[Logan, Ayrshire]]. It was severely damaged.<ref name=Logan>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/collision-at-logan |title=Collision near Logan |publisher=Rail Accident Investigation Branch |date=14 August 2015 |accessdate=17 August 2015}}</ref> The train that was run into was hauled by 66305.<ref name=Loganreport>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/537117/R132016_160713_Logan.pdf |title=Freight train collision near Logan, East Ayrshire 1 August 2015 |publisher=Rail Accidents Investigation Branch |date=13 July 2016 |accessdate=16 July 2016}}</ref>


On 14 August 2017, 66,713 was hauling a freight train that derailed near {{rws|Ely}} due to defective suspension on the wagon that was first to derail. The railway between Ely and {{rws|Peterborough}} was closed for a week.<ref name=RAIBEly>{{cite web |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/731447/R092018_180802_Ely_West_Junction.pdf |title=Freight train derailment at Ely West Junction 14 August 2017 |publisher=Rail Accidents Investigation Branch |accessdate=2 August 2018}}</ref>
On 14 August 2017, 66713 was hauling a freight train that derailed near {{rws|Ely}} due to defective suspension on the wagon that was first to derail. The railway between Ely and {{rws|Peterborough}} was closed for a week.<ref name=RAIBEly>{{cite web |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/731447/R092018_180802_Ely_West_Junction.pdf |title=Freight train derailment at Ely West Junction 14 August 2017 |publisher=Rail Accidents Investigation Branch |accessdate=2 August 2018}}</ref>


== Liveries ==
== Liveries ==

Revision as of 15:07, 5 November 2018

British Rail Class 66
66 598 hauling a freight train near Chesterfield.
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel-electric
BuilderElectro-Motive Diesel
ModelJT42CWR or Series 66
Build date1998–2015
Total produced455
Specifications
Configuration:
 • UICCo'Co'
 • CommonwealthCo-Co
Gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) standard gauge
BogiesHTCR radial
Wheel diameter1,066 mm (42.0 in)
Minimum curve4 chains (80 m)
Wheelbase
  • 17.29 m (56 ft 9 in) (between bogies)
  • 4.15 m (13 ft 7 in) (bogies)
Length21.4 m (70 ft 3 in)
Width2.65 m (8 ft 8 in)
Height3.9 m (12 ft 10 in)
Loco weight129.6 tonnes (127.6 long tons; 142.9 short tons)
Fuel capacity6,400 litres (1,410 imp gal; 1,690 US gal)
Prime mover
AlternatorGM-EMD AR8
Traction motors6 of GM-EMD D43-TR
MU workingAAR system (Classes 59, 66 & 67)
Train heatingNone
Train brakesWestinghouse PBL Air
Performance figures
Maximum speed
  • Class 66/6: 65 mph (105 km/h)
  • Balance of fleet: 75 mph (121 km/h)
Power output
  • Engine: 3,300 bhp (2,460 kW)
  • at rail: 3,000 bhp (2,240 kW)
Tractive effort
  • Maximum: 409 kN (91,900 lbf) at starting
  • Continuous: 260 kN (58,500 lbf) at 15.9 mph (25.6 km/h)
Brakeforce68 tonnes (67 long tons; 75 short tons)
Career
Operators
Numbers66 001–66 250, 66 301–66 305, 66 411-66 434, 66 501-66 599,
66 601–66 625, 66 701–66 779, 66 846-66 850, 66 951–66 957
Nicknames'Shed' 'Ying-Ying' 'Monsters'
Axle load classRoute availability 7

The Class 66 is a type of six-axle diesel electric freight locomotive developed in part from the Class 59, for use on the railways of the UK. Since its introduction the class has been successful and has been sold to British and other European railway companies. In Continental Europe it is marketed as the EMD Class 66 (JT42CWR).

History

Background

On the privatisation of British Rail's freight operations in 1996, Wisconsin Central Transportation Systems under the control of Ed Burkhardt bought a number of the newly privatised rail freight companies: Transrail; Mainline; Loadhaul; and later Railfreight Distribution and Rail Express Systems. Controlling 93% of UK rail freight, after a public relations exercise involving the input of the general public, the company was named English Welsh & Scottish.[1]

EWS inherited a fleet of 1,600 mainly diesel locomotives, with an average age of over 30 years; 300 had been cannibalised for spares.[1] Typical of the fleet, the 2580 hp Class 47s needed a major overhaul every seven years, costing £400,000; yet had an average daily availability of less than 65% with only 16 days between major failures.[1] To enable it to offer its stated lower pricing to customers, EWS needed to reduce operating costs and raise availability.[1]

Order and specification

After reviewing the existing privately commissioned Class 59, which was more powerful, highly reliable and with lower operating costs, EWS approached its builder Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), then a division of General Motors. EMD offered their JT42CWR model, which had the same loading gauge-passing bodyshell as the Class 59. The engine and traction motors were different models to enable higher speeds, and the Class 66s incorporated General Motors' version of a "self-steering bogie" ("radial truck", in American usage), designed to reduce track wear and increase adhesion on curves.[1]

Placing what was termed as "the biggest British loco order since steam days",[1] EWS placed an order for 250 units in May 1996 to be built at the EMD plant in London, Ontario, Canada at a cost of £375 million. Financed by Locomotion Capital (later Angel Trains), the first locomotives were ready in early 1998; the fastest delivery of an all-new locomotive type by GM. [2][3]

The EMD 710 12-cylinder diesel engine is a development of a two-stroke engine used for over 20 years, whilst the EM2000 control equipment is the same as that used on Irish Railways IE 201 Class.[1] EWS reduced the locomotive's time into operation through specifying cab systems laid out like the Class 59,[1] whilst increasing availability with a fuel tank of 8,180 litres (1,800 imp gal; 2,160 US gal) capacity, compared to 3,470 litres (760 imp gal; 920 US gal) on a standard Class 47.[1]

United Kingdom

The first locomotive shipped to the UK arrived at Immingham in June 1998,[3] taken to Derby for testing.[1] The second was taken to AAR's Pueblo Test Centre for endurance testing, before shipping to the UK.[1] The locomotives then shipped at a rate of 11 per month into the UK via Newport Docks, until the order was completed in December 2001.[1] After unloading, EWS engineers then simply took off the tarpaulin, unblocked the suspension, and finally as each was shipped with water and fuel, hooked up the batteries, before starting the engine and handing the locomotive into service.[1] The ability to simply start up '66s' on the dockside and drive them under their own power to depots to enter service was nothing short of a revelation compared with many other BR locomotives, particularly the BR Class 60s[4]

Each locomotive is specified and guaranteed to 95% availability, aiming for a minimum of 180 days mean time between failures.[1] It is designed to cover 1·6million km between major rebuilds, equivalent to 18 years' service, with each major rebuild costed at £200,000.[1]

The initial classification was as Class 61, then they were subsequently given the Class 66 designation in the British classification system (TOPS). In 1998 Freightliner placed an order for locomotives. They were followed by GB Railfreight, and then Direct Rail Services. The last of more than 500 built over an 18-year period was No 66779, Evening Star, delivered to GB Railfreight in spring 2016.[5]

Although sometimes unpopular with many rail enthusiasts, due to their ubiquity and having caused the displacement of several older types of (mostly) British built locomotives, their high reliability has helped rail freight to remain competitive. Rail enthusiasts labelled the type "The Red Death" as they displaced many older types of locomotive[6] whilst also acquiring the nicknames of "sheds" for the EWS (now DBS) locomotives (due to their upturned roof looking like a shed roof)[7] with the Freightliner locomotives being called "Freds" as a portmanteau of Freightliner and Shed.[8]

Continental Europe

The Class 66 design has also been introduced to Continental Europe where it is currently certified for operations in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, France, and Poland, with certification pending in the Czech Republic and Italy. They currently operate on routes between Sweden and Denmark and between Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands and Poland. As a result of its well-known British identity, EMD Europe markets the locomotive as "Series 66".

UK importation

After an increase in UK rail traffic post the 2008 Global Economic Crisis, by 2011 EMD were running low on key parts for the design, specifically castings. After the closure of the London, Ontario plant that year after an industrial dispute, and the introduction of new EU crash and emissions regulations, it was concluded by many that the last of the Class 66 locomotives had been produced.

Due to a reduction in European freight volumes, since mid-2012 a number of EMD Series 66 locomotives have been imported by UK rail freight operators and converted to UK type specifications. These have included:[9]

  • GBRf bought 3 ex-Dutch locos in 2012, which have been numbered 66 747-749 and also bought two ex-German "Rush Rail" locomotives in 2013, which have been numbered 66 750 & 66 751.

However, in September 2013, GB Railfreight announced a new order of a further 8 Class 66/7 locomotives from EMD, the first of the class to be built at EMD's Muncie, Indiana plant. On 2 February GBRf ordered a further 13 locomotives. These 21 locomotives are numbered 66 752-772.[10] Numbers 66 752-756 were shipped from America and arrived at Newport Docks in July 2014. No. 66 752 has been named The Hoosier State, a nickname for Indiana.[11] A further seven locomotives (66 773-779) were later added to the fleet, utilising six power units that had been in the UK, plus one recovered from the scrapped 66 734. The presence of these power units in the UK circumvented European emission compliance regulations and permitted them to be exported to EMD Muncie for installation in further class 66 bodyshells.

Emission compliance

Numbers 66 752-779 were the last Class 66s ordered for service in Great Britain because of increasingly stringent emission regulations. 66 779 was the last Class 66 to be ever built. Although the Class 66s meet stage 3a of the regulations, they do not meet stage 3b. Stage 3b would have required additional exhaust treatment equipment that could not easily be accommodated within the UK loading gauge. The same restrictions apply to the Class 68 and Class 70. The restriction does not apply to second-hand locomotives, provided that they are imported from within the European Union. The purpose of the regulation was to put a cap on the total number of non-compliant locomotives in the EU.[12]

Current operators

Colas Rail

Colas Rail took over the ex-Advenza Cemex Cement flow after the company went bust, initially using the five former Advenza and DRS locomotives (66 406-410) which had been renumbered 66 841-845. Subsequently, as part of a deal with GBRf, Colas replaced them with five ex-Freightliner Class 66s (66 573-577) which were renumbered 66 846–850. The five ex-DRS class 66s were transferred to GBRf and renumbered 66 742–746.

DB Cargo UK

EWS 66 138 hauling a train of autoballasters

DB Cargo UK bought out EWS. Their Class 66 fleet includes five locomotives capable of banking heavy trains over the Lickey Incline. On these specific locomotives, the knuckle coupler has been modified to allow remote releasing from inside the cab, whilst in motion.[13] It also includes fifteen locomotives fitted with RETB signalling equipment, for working in northern Scotland and RETB-fitted branchlines.[13] A few DB Cargo UK Class 66s are now working in Europe as part of the Euro Cargo Rail contract.

Direct Rail Services

Direct Rail Services Class 66 locomotive 66 412, in 'Compass' livery

Direct Rail Services (DRS), a subsidiary of British Nuclear Fuels (BNFL). In 2002, DRS ordered ten Class 66/4 locomotives (66 401–410), employed on new Anglo-Scottish traffic, some with Stobart Rail. In 2006, ten more T2 specification units (66 411–420) were delivered, a further ten (66 421–430) in late 2007, and four more (66 431–434) in 2008.

After the first twenty Class 66s operated by DRS were transferred to Freightliner and GBRf, leaving just 14 in their fleet, DRS leased the five former Fastline Freight locomotives.

Freightliner

Freightliner 66 610 on the East Coast Main Line near York

Freightliner followed EWS by initially ordering five new Class 66/5 locomotives, and have continued to order in small batches. As of summer 2010, the 66/5 fleet had reached 98 examples; 66 521 was withdrawn after the 2001 crash at Great Heck and later scrapped.

In 2000 a new Class 66/6 sub-class was built, with a lower gear ratio, enabling heavier trains to be hauled, albeit at slower speed. There are presently 25 examples of this class, numbered 66 601-625. Some of these locomotives have since been exported for use with Freightliner Poland.

During 2004 the company took delivery of the most recent Class 66/9 sub-class of the locomotive, which are a low-emission variant. All new locomotives for all companies are now of the low-emission "T2" type. The original two such locomotives remain as 66 951 & 952.

In 2011, Freightliner took on Direct Rail Services' 66 411-420.

GB Railfreight

GB Railfreight (GBRf) initially leased seventeen Class 66/7 locomotives, before increasing its fleet to 32. During April 2006 five more low-emission locomotives (numbered 66 718-722) were delivered, liveried for use on the Metronet/Transport for London contracts. A further order for five more locomotives (66 723-727) was delivered in early 2007, and another five locomotives (66 728–732) in April 2008. 66 733-746 are formed of Class 66s from Direct Rail Services, Freightliner and Colas Rail. In 2011 66 720 was painted in a special "Rainbow" livery.[14] In June 2012, 66 734 derailed at Loch Treig whilst working 6S45 North Blyth–Fort William and was consequently cut up on site and scrapped.[15]

The final seven class 66's to be built for the British market arrived on 12 February 2016 aboard the cargo ship Happy Dragon at Newport docks and consisted of numbers 66 773–779. On 15 February they were towed by 66 708 north to Doncaster Roberts Road depot where they were commissioned and then ultimately put to work. 66 779 remained under a tarpaulin until 10 May 2016 when it was revealed at the NRM York with a special livery and nameplates to commemorate the fact it is the final class 66 ever built for the British market.[5][16] The locomotive has been painted in BR Lined Green and named Evening Star, in reference to BR Standard Class 9F Locomotive No. 92220 Evening Star was the last BR Locomotive built in Swindon in 1960. It was unveiled in a special ceremony inside the Great Hall at the National Railway Museum in York on the 10 May 2016 before staying there opposite its namesake, No. 92220, for two weeks. At the same ceremony, the boss of GBRf, John Smith, handed the curator of the National Railway Museum a document offering 66 779 to the national collection when it is retired in about 40 years time.[17]

Former operators

Advenza Freight

Advenza Freight, a Cotswold Rail subsidiary, operated class 66 841-844. They were primarily used on Advenza's scrap and cement flows. The locomotives originated from the batch that DRS returned. Advenza Freight went bust in October 2009 and the class 66s returned to storage.

These locos were housed at Gloucester Carriage Sidings where Advenza Freight was based.

Fastline

Fastline Freight, part of Jarvis PLC, which operated intermodal services between Doncaster and Birmingham International Railfreight Terminal (BIFT), and Thamesport, in North Kent, using refurbished Class 56 locomotives, ordered five Class 66/3 locomotives to operate a coal flow from Hatfield Colliery. They were delivered in 2008.[18] Following the demise of Jarvis in 2010, and Fastline going into administration on 29 March 2010,[19] these locomotives were placed in store, being towed to DRS Carlisle Kingmoor or Crewe Gresty Bridge depot for storage.[20] During 2011, DRS repainted the five ex-Fastline locomotives and added them to their own fleet, keeping their original numbers.

Sub-classes

Minor differences between different orders, and different operating companies have resulted in a number of subclasses being defined.[21]

Subclass Number built TOPS number range Operators Comments
66/0[3] 240 66 001-047
66 049-250
DB Cargo UK The original order of 250.[3]
66 048 stored in bodyshell EMD Longport after Carrbridge derailment.
60 EWS locomotives lent from EWS stock to EWSi subsidiary Euro Cargo Rail although some are back in the UK now.
DBS are now sending locos to Poland.
A year later, in December 2017, the company sold ten of its Class 66s to GB Railfreight: 66008, 016, 046, 058, 081, 132, 141, 184, 238 and 250. These are to be modified to 66/7s, and renumbered as such.[22]
66/3 5 66 301-305 Direct Rail Services Originally ordered by Fastline Freight. Now in use with Direct Rail Services.
66/4 10 66 411-420 Freightliner Acquired from DRS in 2011. Three exported for use in Poland (FPL), 66 411, 66 412 & 66 417.
14 66 421-434 Direct Rail Services Intended use is on intermodal traffic. Occasionally used on nuclear flask traffic – for which they are overpowered.[3]
66/5 94 66 501-520
66 522-572
66 585
66 587-599
Freightliner Replaced Class 47s and Class 57s on Intermodal freight.[3]
66 521 written-off after Great Heck rail crash. 66 582, 66 583, 66 584 and 66 586 have been exported to Poland, the operating subsidiary Freightliner PL.
66/6 19 66 601-607
66 610
66 613-623
Freightliner Top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h) – reduced gearing to cope with heavier oil, aggregates and cement trains.[3]
66 608, 66 609, 66 611, 66 612, 66 624 and 66 625 have been exported to Poland, the operating subsidiary Freightliner PL.
66/7 88 66 701-733
66 735-779
66 781-789
GB Railfreight Operates on coal, intermodal services and also engineering / departmental work for Transport for London and Network Rail on London Underground and National Rail lines.[3]
(66 733 to 66 737 were formerly Direct Rail Services 66 401-405.)
(66 738 to 66 741 were formerly Freightliner 66 578-581.)
(66 742 to 66 746 were formerly Colas Rail 66 841-845 and prior to that were numbered 66 406-410 when with Direct Rail Services.)
(66 747 to 66 749 are a former Dutch fleet converted at the Midland Railway Centre.)
(66 750 and 66 751 are former Beacon Rail locos from mainland Europe.)
(66008, 016, 046, 058, 081, 132, 141, 184, 238 and 250 were formerly DB Cargo UK, these are 66780-66789.)
66 734 was written-off after it was involved in a serious derailment at Loch Treig.
66 775 named after HMS Argyll in a ceremony at HMNB Devonport in July 2017.[23]
66778 named 'Daruis Cheskin' at Cleethorpes station on 15 July 2017.
66/8 5 66 846-850 Colas Rail Former operated by Freightliner as 66 573-577.
66/9 7 66 951-957 Freightliner A lower emission variant – fuel capacity reduced to compensate for the increased weight of other components.[3]

Poor working environment

The British train drivers' union ASLEF has complained that the locomotives are unfit and unsafe to work in, citing excessive heat, noise levels and poor seating.

In April 2007 ASLEF proposed a ban on their members driving the locomotives during the British summer 2007 period. Keith Norman, ASLEF's general secretary, described the cabs as "unhealthy, unsafe and unsatisfactory". Research showed that in July 2006, when the weather had been extremely hot, the number of incidents where a driver had passed a signal at danger (SPAD) increased.[24] EWS entered into discussions and made amendments to a series of trial locomotives,[24] GB Railfreight and Freightliner also investigated cab improvements.[25] In June 2007, progress on the issue led ASLEF to withdraw its threat of industrial action.[26]

In Norway, CargoNet related complaints about the noise levels in the CD66 variant of the Class 66 resulted in higher pay rates for drivers.[27]

Accidents

On 28 February 2001, 66521 was involved in the 2001 Great Heck rail crash which resulted in 10 deaths including the driver Stephen Dunn.[28] The locomotive was written off and scrapped as a result of major damage sustained in the accident.[29]

On 9 February 2006, a freight train hauled by English Welsh & Scottish 66017, derailed at Brentingby Junction near Melton Mowbray. Having passed a signal at danger, the locomotive and the first three wagons were derailed at catch points at the end of the Up Goods Loop. There were no injuries.[30]

66 048 lies in the snow and trees following the Carrbridge derailment.

On 4 January 2010, a freight train hauled by 66048 derailed at Carrbridge in snowy weather, blocking the Highland Main Line.[31] Having passed a signal at danger the train was derailed at trap points,[32] subsequently falling down an embankment into trees and injuring the two crew members. The locomotive was hauling container flats from Inverness to Mossend Yard on behalf of Stobart Rail.[33] The line was reopened on 12 January.[34] The body of this loco is in Stoke-on-Trent.[citation needed]

On 21 November 2011, 66111 derailed between Exeter Central and Exeter St David's on working an engineering works service.[35]

On 28 June 2012, GBRf operated 66734 derailed at Loch Treig whilst working the 6S45 North Blyth to Fort William Alcan Tanks.[36][37] Due to its position and the environmental risks associated with recovery, after agreement from owners Porterbrook it was cut-up on site and the mechanics recycled as spare parts.[38]

On 1 August 2015, 66428 was hauling an engineering train that ran into the rear of another engineering train at Logan, Ayrshire. It was severely damaged.[39] The train that was run into was hauled by 66305.[40]

On 14 August 2017, 66713 was hauling a freight train that derailed near Ely due to defective suspension on the wagon that was first to derail. The railway between Ely and Peterborough was closed for a week.[41]

Liveries

66019 in DB Cargo livery

Class 66s have carried many liveries over the years, including many advertising liveries. Below are some, minus the logos, due to copyright.

66749 in GBRf Europorte Livery
66848 in Colas Railfreight livery

See also

References and sources

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o "EWS workhorses will deliver savings". Railway Gazette. 1 April 1998. Retrieved 6 February 2014.
  2. ^ Jones 2018, p. 22.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i "rolling stock : class 66 [sic]". thejunction.org.uk. 16 August 2006. Archived from the original on 20 February 2012. Retrieved 30 December 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  4. ^ Jones 2018, pp. 22, 24.
  5. ^ a b Jones 2018, p. 26.
  6. ^ Buck, Martin (2005). Freightmaster review : a decade of change 1995 to 2004. Swindon: Freightmaster Publishing. p. 7. ISBN 0-9537540-4-9.
  7. ^ Buck, Martin (2005). Freightmaster review : a decade of change 1995 to 2004. Swindon: Freightmaster Publishing. p. 60. ISBN 0-9537540-4-9.
  8. ^ Piggott, Nick, ed. (October 1999). "Sheds and Freds". The Railway Magazine. 145 (1, 182). London: IPC: 13. ISSN 0033-8923.
  9. ^ "Import of EMD Series 66 increases due to lack of UK motive power". Railway Gazette. September 2013.
  10. ^ "GB Railfreight expands Class 66 fleet". Railway Gazette. 4 September 2013. Retrieved 6 February 2014.
  11. ^ Railways Illustrated. August 2014. p. 9. ISSN 1479-2230. {{cite magazine}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  12. ^ Rail Express. No. 217. June 2014. p. 9. ISSN 1362-234X. {{cite magazine}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  13. ^ a b Fox, Hall & Pritchard 2008[page needed]
  14. ^ "GB Railfreight goes for the unusual look to brighten a dull day". Railway Herald. No. 274. 11 July 2011. p. 4. ISSN 1751-8091. Retrieved 11 July 2011.
  15. ^ "Now scrapped GBRf 66 734 down the bank at Loch Treig Scotland". britishrailways.tv. 2015. Retrieved 10 April 2015.
  16. ^ "Brand new Class 66s delivered to Yorkshire". RAIL magazine. 16 February 2016. Retrieved 16 February 2016.
  17. ^ Milner, Chris, ed. (June 2016). "Last class 66 is named Evening Star". The Railway Magazine. Vol. 162, no. 1, 383. Horncastle: Mortons Media. p. 7. ISSN 0033-8923.
  18. ^ "Fastline Freight's 66/3s arrive at Newport". Railway Herald. No. 137. 30 June 2008. p. 3. ISSN 1751-8091. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
  19. ^ "Fastline Ltd". Archived from the original on 9 April 2010. Retrieved 30 December 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  20. ^ "End of the Line: Withdrawn & Stored Locomotives UK". WNXX. List: Class 66. Archived from the original on 13 November 2010. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help); Unknown parameter |subscription= ignored (|url-access= suggested) (help)
  21. ^ "Class 66 :: Electro-Motive Diesel JT42CWR". Class66.railfan.nl. Retrieved 26 December 2013.
  22. ^ https://www.railwaymagazine.co.uk/gb-railfreight-buys-db-cargo-class-66s/
  23. ^ http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/sailors-celebrate-as-train-named-in-honour-of-plymouth-warship-hms-argyll/story-30434752-detail/story.html
  24. ^ a b "Boycott threat over 'dirty' locos". BBC News. 30 April 2007. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
  25. ^ "Positive moves from operators on 66s". Locomotive Journal. ASLEF: 7. April 2007.
  26. ^ "Progress on 66 cabs leads to normal working". News Archive. ASLEF. 14 June 2007.
  27. ^ "Enighet mellom NLF og CargoNet" (in Norwegian). 5 October 2004. Archived from the original on 28 September 2007. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  28. ^ "Tragic results of driver fatigue". BBC News. 13 December 2001.
  29. ^ "UKRail.co.uk page on 66521".
  30. ^ "Rail Accident Report: Derailment of a freight train at Brentingby Junction, near Melton Mowbray – 9 February 2006". Rail Accident Investigation Branch. January 2007. Retrieved 22 June 2011.
  31. ^ "Snow derailment problems continue". BBC News. 4 January 2010. Retrieved 5 January 2010.
  32. ^ "Investigation into an accident involving a freight train at Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, on 4 January 2010" (PDF). Rail Accident Investigation Branch. Retrieved 16 January 2010.
  33. ^ "Probes into SPADs in Devon and Scotland". RAIL Magazine. No. 635. Bauer Media Group. 13 January 2010. pp. 8–9.
  34. ^ "INVERNESS-PERTH ROUTE REOPENS AFTER A WEEK OF ENDEAVOUR". Network Rail. 13 January 2010. Retrieved 11 June 2010.
  35. ^ "VIDEO: Derailed train causes services to be cancelled". Exeter Express and Echo. 25 November 2011. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
  36. ^ "120628 : 66734 Loch Treig Derailment". WNXX. June 2012. Retrieved 29 June 2012.
  37. ^ "Man winched to safety in Scotland after floods derail train". The Daily Telegraph. 29 June 2012.
  38. ^ Chris Milner (31 January 2013). "Derailed Class 66 to be cut up on site". Railway Magazine. Retrieved 26 December 2013.
  39. ^ "Collision near Logan". Rail Accident Investigation Branch. 14 August 2015. Retrieved 17 August 2015.
  40. ^ "Freight train collision near Logan, East Ayrshire 1 August 2015" (PDF). Rail Accidents Investigation Branch. 13 July 2016. Retrieved 16 July 2016.
  41. ^ "Freight train derailment at Ely West Junction 14 August 2017" (PDF). Rail Accidents Investigation Branch. Retrieved 2 August 2018.

Sources

  • Fox, Peter; Hall, Peter; Pritchard, Robert (2004). British Railways Locomotives & Coaching Stock 2004. Sheffield: Platform 5. ISBN 1-902336-39-9. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Fox, Peter; Hall, Peter; Pritchard, Robert (2008). British Railways Locomotives & Coaching Stock 2008. Sheffield: Platform 5. ISBN 978-1-902336-63-3. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  • Jones, Ben "Freight without Frontiers: 20 years of Class 66" in The Railway Magazine July 2018 pp23-29.
  • Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc. EMD: JT42CWRM.

Further reading

  • Taylor, Ross (2015). General Motors Type 5: Class 66 Locomotives. Amberley Publishing. ISBN 9781445648507. OCLC 921186595.
  • "That's two down - only another 248 Class 66s to go...!". RAIL. No. 327. EMAP Apex Publications. 25 March – 7 April 1998. p. 17. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "EWS takes delivery of its first American-design Class 66s". RAIL. No. 328. EMAP Apex Publications. 8–21 April 1998. p. 9. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "First Canadian Class 66 arrives in Britain!". RAIL. No. 330. EMAP Apex Publications. 6–19 May 1998. pp. 8–9. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "Class 66 hauls revenue-earning freight train after just six weeks!". RAIL. No. 333. EMAP Apex Publications. 17–30 June 1998. pp. 8–9. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • Holley, Mel (15–28 July 1998). "Off to Colorado with Ed's new Class 66!". RAIL. No. 335. EMAP Apex Publications. pp. 24–30. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • Holley, Mel (9–22 September 1998). "Three more new Class 66s arrive in Britain - it may be 50 by Christmas". RAIL. No. 339. EMAP Apex Publications. pp. 12–13. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "Seven more Class 66s ready for delivery to EWS". RAIL. No. 340. EMAP Apex Publications. 23 September – 6 October 1998. p. 14. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "Second batch of Class 66s arrive - and they go straight into traffic". RAIL. No. 342. EMAP Apex Publications. 21 October – 3 November 1998. p. 17. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "Third batch of '66s' arrives as EWS hires four ships". RAIL. No. 343. EMAP Apex Publications. 4–17 November 1998. p. 12. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.
  • "EWS on target for 60 '66s' by Christmas". RAIL. No. 344. EMAP Apex Publications. 18 November – 1 December 1998. p. 10. ISSN 0953-4563. OCLC 49953699.