Wabtec will modernize Fortescue Metals Group’s 28 C44-9W locomotives into AC44C6Ms, the companies announced on June 5.
The first dozen upgraded units, completed at Wabtec’s plant in Fort Worth, Texas, are already en route to the western Australian iron ore railroad. The remaining locomotives will be delivered over the next two years.
“While we have completed more than 1,000 modernizations for customers globally, it’s a first for Australia and demonstrates Fortescue’s commitment to drive more sustainable rail operations,” said Wendy McMillan, Wabtec’s senior regional vice president, South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand. “By repurposing and rebuilding our locomotives, we give these heavy-haul trains another 20 years of life, while reducing the fuel consumption and maintenance, and repair and overhaul expenses by up to 20%. For Fortescue, the modernized trains will deliver up to a 55% increase in tractive effort and more than 40% increase in reliability.”
The modernized locomotives will benefit from improved performance and increased reliability with new features including a UX engine, new electrical cabinets, a new design high-efficiency radiator and radiator cab, an upgraded control system to remove obsolescence, and AC traction with individual axle control.
“The procurement of the modernized locomotives is an important element of Fortescue’s locomotive fleet strategy,” said Mark Komene, general manager of Hedland Operations. “This newly modernized fleet will enable substantial long-term capital and operating costs savings, provide the latest traction and control technology, and enable future upgrades to alternative energy sources such as battery electric in support of Fortescue’s industry-leading target to be carbon neutral by 2030.”
Wabtec says its modernization program is a key component of its effort to advance a circular economy.
They are getting re-manufactured 20 year locomotive but are going to be carbon free in 2030? That statement does not make sense. Sounds like they are throwing away 12 years of locomotives. Or, maybe the P R was wrong, huh?
Love to see that paint scheme on CSX – colors would fit.
A 55% increase in tractive effort is impressive.
Yes, shipping them “back and forth” to Australia must have been very costly, if that was in fact the case?
Or were these “sourced” second-hand C-44-9Ws from a U.S. carrier? (UP, BNSF, NS, etc.)
“Enquiring minds” want to know ….
Think about the labor cost and tax advantages on both sides., Austalian labor is expensive. Australian taxes are high. American wages are cheap compared to many countries. For one thing, American workers get fewer holidays and vacation days than workers in most of the world. Very likely the Export-Import Bank did the financing on this at very attractive rates. All of that can make the shipping a minor cost.
So these locos are being shipped from Australia to Ft.Worth and back? Wonder what the cost of shipping is?
Love the outline of Australia on the side of the hood.