NZR EF class
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| NZR EF class | |
 An EF class locomotive on the North Island Main Trunk in in 'bumble bee' colours |
|
| Power type | Electric |
|---|---|
| Builder | Brush Traction, Loughborough, United Kingdom |
| Build date | 1986-1988 |
| UIC classification | Bo-Bo-Bo |
| Gauge | 1067mm |
| Length | 19.6 m |
| Total weight | 107 t |
| Electric system | NIMT 25 kV AC |
| Traction motors | 6 |
| Top speed | 105 km/h |
| Power output | 4000 hp / 3000 kW |
| Career | New Zealand Railways Corporation, Tranz Rail, Toll Rail |
| Class | EF, previously Class 30 |
| Number in class | 22 |
| Number | 30007 - 30249 |
| Nicknames | "Toasters" |
| Locale | Palmerston North - Te Rapa |
| First run | 1987 - 1989 |
| Disposition | 15 in service; 3 written off; 4 stored |
The EF Class (previously classified Class 30) are the only mainline electric locomotives in service on New Zealand's national rail network. They operate on the 25 kV AC overhead electrified section of the North Island Main Trunk Railway between Palmerston North and Te Rapa (near Hamilton).
At 3000 kW (4000hp), they are the most powerful locomotives in New Zealand. They are the third class of locomotive in New Zealand to utilise the Bo-Bo-Bo wheel arrangement, the other classes being the EW class and the DJ Class. In both cases, this wheel arrangement was used to provide a lower axle-load due to track conditions.
Four locomotives are stored unserviceable due to accidents or a lack of spare parts, at Hutt Workshops or Palmerston North locomotive depot.
As of June 2006, two locomotives have been fitted with AAR style Couplers to allow them to pull heaver trains. All locomotives in the class are expected to receive the new couplers, each weighing over 400 kg.
