‘Clan’ project progresses
THE new-build project constructing BR Standard Class 6 Pacific No. 72010 Hengist continues to progress at CTL Seal in Sheffield. Work has been proceeding steadily with the production of small components for the bogie lubrication system, ready for assembly to commence once all the machining work is completed on the main central casting. The rear extensions to the frame have been ‘black bolted’ to the main frame structure. Some minor machining issues have been identified and are in process of being corrected. Once complete, this will enable the frame extensions to be correctly aligned using laser measuring equipment in the same way that the main frames were previously aligned. That done, and the permanent bolting torqued up to the specified values, it should be possible to move on to riveting the front and rear buffer beams into position. The front beam is already in position, with strengthening gussets placed. This will not be riveted until the rear one is also ready so that costs are reduced by having the work carried out as one operation, rather than in two separate ones. Cleaning and checking of stored components is continuing, with many items receiving a fresh coat of primer after the cleaning process is complete. Geoff Turner, chief engineer, said: “Progress is currently steady rather than spectacular, but much is being achieved. “We have already carried out the design review for the trailing truck and have started raising funds to enable its construction.”