| M9 | |
|---|---|
| Power type | Diesel |
| Builder | Alstom |
| Total produced | 10 |
| UIC classification | Co'Co' |
| Gauge | 1435mm |
| Minimum curve | 100m[1] |
| Locomotive weight | 100.56 tonnes[1] |
| Fuel capacity | 5000l[1] |
| Sandbox capacity | 480l[1] |
| Prime mover | 12 Cylinder Ruston 12 RK 215T engine[1] |
| Top speed | 110km/h[1] |
| Power output | 1,800 hp (1,300 kW) @1000rpm (de-rated from 3220hp)[1] |
| Number | 864 to 873[2] |
The Sri Lankan Railways M9 locomotive is a mainline 6 axle Co'Co' diesel electric locomotive built by Alstom (manufacturers code AD 32 C) and imported in 2000 for the Sri Lanka Railways.
The locomotives initially had both electrical and mechanicial problems, and several were out of service for several years. In 2010 the process of returning the fleet to service began.
Ten units were ordered in 1997 and delivered in 2000, costing 190 million Sri Lankan rupees each. By 2010 only 3 were in operation due to technical problems,[1] Various problems were described including engine malfunction, and problems with the engine control units,[3] as well as the machines requiring modifications for use on curving track.[4]
The delay in returning the locomotives to service was ascribed to an unaffordability of spare parts,[3][5] and prohibitive cost of work by foreign firms.[4]
The first of the 7 inoperative locomotives, number 869, was returned to service after 6 years in September 2010, following work by the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies (ACCIMT) and the Industrial Technology Institute (ITI).[3][6]