Wagon News
‘Mega 3’ return to UK
The former KAA ‘Mega 3’ dual purpose piggyback and intermodal wagons made a surprise return to the UK on June 1. Built back in 2002/03, the 22 wagons, BCC11501-22, were initially used to move Blue Circle Cement lorry trailers between Westbury and Southampton before the trial controversially ended, despite receiving a government grant. After finding limited use carrying intermodal containers, they were sent abroad some years ago. Now numbered 80 4905 001-022 and coded IXA, they were hauled from Dollands Moor to Tilbury by 66027 and are now leased to Victa Railfreight.
Weedkiller arrives
The first of Network Rail’s new loco-hauled weedkiller sets has now arrived, which will be powered by GB Railfreight. The modular weedspray equipment, storage containers and water tanks have been mounted on KFAS VTG95378/79/80 with the system utilising cameras and computer systems to target and identify the weeds and then deliver the most appropriate herbicide. The set was moved from Derby to Kidderminster by 66709 and 66771 on June 16 to undergo trials on the Severn Valley Railway.
Additional RHTT flats
At Eastleigh Works, Arlington Fleet Services has completed four more FRA-B conversions for Freightliner, these being vehicles modified for Railhead Treatment Train use. Joining the eight wagons modified last year are 613109-12, which were previously 613001/02/24/27 respectively. They again carry Freightliner’s grey wagon livery with small orange logos and were collected by 66506 on June 7.
Harwich TEAS serviced
The TEAS used on the North Walsham-harwich condensate flow made a rare trip away from East Anglia on June 7 as 66765 took the tankers to Long Marston. Here, VTG88001-20 underwent internal cleaning and servicing with the first ten wagons to be completed returning to Harwich behind 66715 on June 14.