British Rail GT3

GT3 was a prototype mainline gas turbine locomotive. It was built in 1961 by English Electric at their Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows to demonstrate its wares to British Railways. It was designed by Vulcan engineer J. O. P. Hughes and the project was started in the early 1950s. Externally, it resembled a steam tender locomotive. In the case of GT3, the tender carried diesel fuel.

Gas Turbine 3
GT3 at Leicester in 1961
Type and origin
Power typeGas Turbine mechanical
BuilderEnglish Electric at Vulcan Foundry
Serial numberVulcan Foundry: D228
Build date1958–1961
Specifications
Configuration:
​
 • Whyte4-6-0
 • UIC2'C
Driver dia.5 ft 9 in (1.753 m)
Length68 ft 0+1⁄2 in (20.74 m)
Loco weight79.80 long tons (81.08 t)
Tender weight44 long tons (45 t)
Prime moverEM27L gas turbine
TransmissionMechanical: flexible drive from gearbox onto middle driving axle
Train heatingSteam generator
Performance figures
Top speed90 mph (140 km/h)
Power output2,750 hp (2,050 kW)
Tractive effort38,000 lbf (169.03 kN)
Career
Railroad(s)British Rail
NumberGT3
DispositionReturned to VF 1962; turbine removed; scrapped T.W. Ward, Salford, March 1966


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