Millbrook Proving Grounds
This power pack, one of four per train, is the crucial package in converting a D stock tube train into a class 230 DMU. It was used as a demonstration of power train packaging at a show for road vehicles. The engine is a 5-cylinder, 3.2-litre Ford Transit diesel, and is installed at an angle to the module to enable an oversized DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) to be installed - the rail duty cycle being more demanding on pollution control than that for road vans. The module weighs a ton, and can be swapped out in five minutes - the only connections to the train are the mechanical mountings, fuel pipes, electrical hookup, and an exhaust pipe. The engine drives an alternator, whose output is rectified to 750V DC to drive the original traction motors. In case you're wondering about the rather vivid grass, you're right - it is plastic.
Location: Millbrook Proving Grounds
Original line: Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership
Photographer: Ken Strachan
Contact photographer: Ken Strachan
Date: 14/09/2016
Image number: 56542
