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News
Log carrying capacity
KiwiRail's log carrying capability will receive a substantial boost later this year with the arrival of hi-tech log cradle bases.
The bases, enough for 100 wagons, will enable three log bunks per wagon and can carry up to 36 tonnes, giving a 20 - 50 percent payload increase on existing fleet. The first shipment of 144 bolsters (24 wagons) arrives in NZ in September and will be deployed in October, with the remaining cradles arriving during October and November.
While these wagons can be used anywhere on the network, a particular focus on the lower North Island, says KiwiRail Manager Bulk, Steve Muir.
The progressive introduction of new container flat top wagons to the fleet over coming months, will release UK wagons for this business.
"We are working with forestry owners to investigate potential
inland hubs at strategic locations where logs can be stockpiled and
then transported by rail to export ports."
The cradles, from Swedish firm ExTe are proven on European
railroads and variants are also used by the road transport
industry.