The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology

UWC and VTG expand cooperation

(Posted on 18/09/19)

Research and production corporation United Wagon Company, Russia’s largest manufacturer of freight cars , and the railway transportation company VTG Rail Russia, member of the VTG AG Group, Europe’s leading lessor of freight rolling stock, have signed an contract for the supply of 150 flat cars fitted with bogies with a 25 t axle load for timber products. The shipment is set to be completed by the end of this year.

Tihkvin-produced model 13-6852-02 platforms (40 feet) allow operators to reduce their fleet size required for transporting timber towing to the platform increased loading capacity of 74 t and a loading volume of 122 m3. Every 13-6852-02 car significantly reduces average transportation costs per tonne of freight, because the car is able to accommodate up to 10 m3 of freight more than similar standard models.

The Tikhvin flat car has been designed so as to guarantee entire safety of the freight ensuring that it is properly secured and protected from deformation, while the ‘idle’ volume is minimised. The design solutions used in the side posts’ fittings allow to carry packaged freight without any risk of damage.

A key advantage of the car is its 18-9855 bogie with a 25 t axle load. Using this bogie extends the service interval of the platform up to 1 million km (or eight years) and allows a notable reduction of maintenance costs over its service life which is as long as 40 years. Standard models available on the market are sent for their first round of depot repairs after running 210,000 km (or upon expiry of three years) and thereafter every 110–160,000 km (or three years).

The start of partner relations between VTG Rail Russia and UWC dates back to 2017. With the new contract excluded, VTG Rail Russia operates a total of 100 Tikhvin-produced railcars equipped with 25-t axle load bogies, being 13-6852-02 platforms for timber.

Olga Yakimova, Commercial Director and Deputy CEO at VTG Rail Russia, said, “We are increasing and diversifying our railcar fleet to achieve the targets set to us by our shareholders. Developing our fleet enables us to enter new markets and expand the range of services we offer. Tikhvin cars allow us to meet all of our clients’ needs ensuring reliable freight deliveries and faultless performance of our fleet.”