Britain’s beloved steam trains are set to get a revolutionary upgrade with the successful trial of pioneering technology on the iconic A1 No.60163 Tornado.
In a groundbreaking move, the UK has successfully trialed pioneering technology on its beloved steam trains. The project, led by Network Rail, marks a significant step towards securing the future of main-line locomotives.
Steam trains, also known as steam locomotives, were a crucial mode of transportation during the Industrial Revolution.
Built between 1804 and 1900, these massive machines hauled freight and passengers across continents.
The most iconic steam train is the Flying Scotsman, which set a world speed record in 1934.
Peak production occurred in the late 19th century, with over 100,000 steam trains manufactured worldwide.
Steam trains played a vital role in shaping global commerce and connectivity.
The UK’s railways are undergoing a major change to their signalling systems in the coming years. Network Rail plans to remove traditional lineside colour light signals in favour of in-cab signalling systems along key routes. This move has sparked concerns about the viability of steam locomotives, which have been a staple of British rail transport for decades.
On a Monday night earlier this month, the new technology was trialled for the first time on Britain‘s first steam locomotive to be built in 50 years, the A1 No.60163 Tornado. Fitted with European Train Control System (ETCS) technology, the Tornado ran west of Shrewsbury to Newtown and Welshpool overnight as part of a ‘pathfinder’ project aimed at securing the future of steam locomotives.
Steam locomotives have a rich history dating back to the early 19th century.
The first steam-powered locomotive was invented by Richard Trevithick in 1804, with the first practical steam engine built by George Stephenson in 1814.
These early engines were used for both passenger and freight transport, revolutionizing land travel.
By the mid-19th century, steam locomotives had become a standard feature of railroads worldwide.
They remained the primary mode of transportation until the introduction of diesel and electric locomotives in the 20th century.
The trial was not without its challenges. The team faced issues with fitting the systems, including heat, coal dust, shocks, and vibrations, which stressed the equipment. To overcome these obstacles, a second steam-powered turbo generator, an axle-driven alternator, and a dedicated battery bank had to be installed.
Amy Clouston, principal human factors specialist at engineering consultancy AtkinsRéalis, highlighted the importance of testing the technology in a real-world setting. ‘We had to think about vibrations, lighting, noise, coal dust, water, and steam and grubby fingers,’ she said. The team also had to factor in the placement of screens to avoid being hit by a fireman swinging a shovel around while still providing the driver with critical information.
The Tornado’s retrofit with ETCS is a world-first project that has tested the technology in one of the most complex and harsh operating environments. The results have proven that heritage and digital systems can coexist without compromise, paving the way for future fitments.
Network Rail plans to roll out ETCS across the country in the coming years, with some trains set to run in digital-only mode from the end of this year. While the cost of fitting the new technology has been significant (£9m), the spokesperson believes that prices will decrease as the technology becomes more widely adopted.
The project’s success has been hailed as a vital step towards securing the future of main-line steam operations. As Tank Porteous, main line signalling programme director at Hitachi Rail UK, said, ‘Tornado is so far the only steam locomotive to have been fitted with the system… The results will influence the design of equipment that will be fitted.’
Steam operations involve the production, transportation, and distribution of steam for various industrial applications.
This can include power generation, processing plants, and heating systems.
The process typically begins with a boiler or steam generator that produces high-pressure steam from water.
The steam is then transported through pipes to the point of use, where it may be expanded through valves or turbines to reduce pressure.
Steam operations require careful management to ensure efficiency, safety, and reliability.
