Pacific National XRB class

The Pacific National XRB class are a class of diesel locomotive B units built by Pacific National at South Dynon Locomotive Depot.

Pacific National XRB class
XRB561 at South Dynon in June 2006
Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder Pacific National, South Dynon Model EMD GT26C-3 Total produced 3
Specifications Configuration: ​  • UIC Co-Co Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in), 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) Trucks 6 Bogies co-co Fuel type Diesel Prime mover EMD 16-645E3C Aspiration Turbocharged Cylinders V16 Cylinder size 645ci Transmission diesel electric Loco brake spring park brake
Performance figures Power output 3000HP
Career Operators Pacific National Number in class 3 Numbers XRB560-XRB562 Current owner Pacific National Disposition All stored

History

The XRB class were built by Pacific National at its South Dynon Locomotive Depot. They are mechanically similar to the XR class, but are B units without driving cabs. The EMD 16-645E3C engines were sourced second-hand from North America.

They were built to operate as booster units on standard gauge interstate freight trains between Melbourne and Perth, and has to be led by a locomotive with a conventional driving cab.

The XRB's original concept was to have these units remote controlled from the ground, but due to safety risks the plan was scrapped and they became mid unit power only.

These units do not have hostler controls for moving them around yards and depots, only being fitted with a dead engine device and park-brake button. As of October 2022, all three are stored at Progress Rail's Port Augusta Workshops.