The AC6000CW,
an impressive diesel-electric locomotive, was manufactured by
GE Transportation from 1995 to 2001. With a robust 6,000-horsepower
engine, it ranks as one of the world's most potent single-engine
diesel locomotives. Its design catered to demanding horsepower
requirements, particularly for hauling hefty coal and ore trains.
Union Pacific and CSX were the primary purchasers, with most units
ending production in 2001.
Initial locomotives
encountered several mechanical issues, the most significant being
engine-related. A notable challenge was severe vibrations, prompting
a solution involving augmenting engine mass to lower the resonant
frequency. This adjustment, however, led to difficulties with
the twin turbochargers. These setbacks compelled GE to postpone
full-scale production of the new model until 1998. Changes like
employing sturdier materials and enhancing engine wall thickness
were instituted during full production.
To enhance
reliability and environmental friendliness, CSX undertook a re-powering
effort by upgrading their AC6000CW units from 16-7HDL engines
to GEVO-16 engines. While capable of 5,800 hp, these units were
rated at 4,600 hp and classified as CW46AH.
A fascinating
highlight about these locomotives is their contribution to a world
record. On June 21, 2001, all eight of BHP Billiton's Mount Newman
railway AC6000s collaborated to set a remarkable record. They
hauled a staggering 109,938 tons across 682 cars, covering a distance
of 171 miles between Yandi mine and Port Hedland, Australia. This
extraordinary train stretched over 4.5 miles, and as of 2023,
the record still stands.
|