Network Rail has taken delivery of eight tankers from Whale Tankers, following a tender process in conjunction with rail industry consultancy Hilton Rail Consulting.
The tankers were custom-built for Network Rail and will be used to keep trackside drainage systems clear of leaves and other waste matter.
The tankers incorporate chassis with a rolling stock wheel arrangement, so that the vehicles can easily travel up and down the track to precise locations.
They were tested for three months on Network Rail’s test track facilities in the UK and prior to this in Germany to ensure each complies with legislative and safety requirements, as well as the operational parameters stipulated by Network Rail.
Whale is supplying the equipment on a full R&M contract and delivering training to Network Rail staff. The manufacturer has developed a data logging system to manage vehicle maintenance.
