CT Site Wanganui relocation to Gilberd StreetRead More
New rolling stock order confirmedRead More
Cat-in-the–box Chiefie reunited with familyRead More
Palmerston North train unlocks possibility for ‘super’ freight service to ChristchurchRead More- New Rolling Stock proves its worthRead More
Longer log trains running on key forestry routeRead More
New lease on life for popular wagon classRead More
One freight train can take up to 100 trucks off the roadRead More
Rail Ferry DrydockRead More
Youngest train driver takes first soloRead More
KiwiRail wins business from courier companyRead More
Further investment in rail line between Hamilton and TaurangaRead More
KiwiRail to begin new log service to Wellington from WairarapaRead More- Freight growth continues but decrease in full year results forecastRead More
Take care at level crossings along busy train lineRead More
Dispatch - Freight Newsletter December 2011Read More
KiwiRail continues to build a stronger foundation for the futureRead More- KiwiRail sees strong growth at Southdown Freight TerminalRead More
Getting closer to customersRead More- Log carrying capacityRead More
- Order placed for more new locomotivesRead More
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.