KZ-8A freight locomotives pilot run starts in Kazakhstan
ASTANA. January 8. KAZINFORM - Pilot operation of the first freight locomotives KZ-8A series has started in Kazakhstan, the press service of "Locomotive" JSC informs.
Locomotives' pilot testing is taking place on Ekibastuz-Tobol and Ekibastuz-Presnogorkovskaya sites. A ccording to the experts of "Locomotive" JSC, the exploitation of new locomotives will identify the advantages and disadvantages of new machinery. "Prima" freight locomotive was taken as a basis for designing the first KZ8A. Then it was adapted to 1520 mm track gage on the basis of operation specifications in climatic conditions of Kazakhstan, -50 to +50 C temperatures.
Two-piece locomotive of this series has a nominal capacity of 8800 kW. Design speed is 120 kilometers per hour. The new machine provides integrated microprocessor system of control and diagnostics. KZ8A locomotive is equipped with modular control cab with climate control. The machinery meets all modern sanitary ergonomic and safety standards. To protect service personnel in the event of frontal collision the cab is provided with a reinforcing belt named ''cell absorber ''.
"Locomotive" JSC plans to purchase another 188 locomotives of this series by 2020.
Electric locomotives supply contract has been signed between "Kazakhstan Temir Zholy'' National Company'' JSC , ''Alstom Transport '' and "Transmashholding" CJSC during the official visit of the President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev to France in October 27, 2010.