Colas Rail UK Welcome Two New Tampers into Operation

Pictured: DR75016 & DR75016 stationed at P&T’s UK base
Image Credit: Alex Hall/Rail Infrastructure

We are delighted to share that Colas Rail UK have welcomed two new Plasser & Theurer (P&T) 09-4×4/4S Tampers into the fleet.

The addition of DR75016 and DR75017 demonstrates Colas Rail UK’s continued investment in the latest technology to maintain our position as key supplier to Network Rail of On Track Machines in the UK.

DR75016 and DR75017 began fabrication in P&T’s facility in Linz, Austria in February 2023. The Tampers were transported to the UK earlier this year to undergo final commissioning and calibration at P&T UK’s base at West Ealing before traveling to Severn Valley Railway for a rigorous shakedown ahead of going into contract with Network Rail.

Our tamping testing and shakedown activity at the Severn Valley Railway will also improve the track quality of the heritage railway for their volunteers and users of their railway network.

*Pictured: Our new Tampers while based at Severn Valley Railway*
*Image Credit: Dan Crisp*

Both Tampers will be entering operations in the Western region as we work with our client Network Rail to put the passenger first by continuing to ensure track works can be handed back at line speed to avoid delays and provide a safe and reliable service.

Paul Conway, Head of Engineering and Compliance said “This continued investment in new machines demonstrates Colas Rail’s commitment to having a modern fleet of machines to ensure the best operational performance for the client as well as demonstrating our commitment to carbon reduction by replacing 20+ year old Tampers with machines that have the latest EU Stage 5 emissions compliant engines.”

This news follows our continuous commitment to improving our On Track Plant fleet through innovation, including the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil as well as Solid Oxide Fuel Cells as sustainable diesel alternatives, retrofitting older model Tampers with System7 technology and the addition of a new Ballast Regulator entering service last year.

Pictured: The Ballast Regulator arriving at Rugby in May 2023
Image credit: Jonathon Laing

First published: 21st June 2024

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