Johannesburg-based DCD Rolling Stock, a division of international manufacturing and engineering company DCD Group, has received supply orders for its 24 t and 35 t diesel hydro- kinetic (DHK) Funkey shunting locomotives from clients operating in the mining and industrial processing sectors over the past five years.

DCD Rolling Stock GM Petrus Mulaudzi says the greatest potential for growth lies in the burgeoning African mining sector.

“Rapidly developing mining sectors, in countries such as Zambia and Mozambique, require highly durable, yet cost-effective and simple, locomotives for the switching/shunting operation. “Having proven to be ideally suited to harsh African operating conditions over the past eight decades, the Funkey range of DHK shunting locomotives is the ideal solution for new and existing operations,” explains Mulaudzi.

Demand for industrial Funkey shunting locomotives manufactured by DCD Rolling Stock has remained stable across Africa in volatile market conditions, owing to the tried and tested performance of the range.

Further, Mulaudzi notes that a colliery in Botswana placed an order for a 37 t DHK Funkey shunting locomotive last year and has given positive feedback on the locomotive.

“The locomotive is fitted with a 251 kW Cummins QSM11-L335 engine, of 2 200 rpm, and is coupled to an integrated Clark T4000 series torque convertor and transmission assembly,” he explains.

This provides it with enough power to regularly and consistently deliver vast quantities of coal from the mine site to a nearby coal-fired power station, Mulaudzi adds.

“All the locomotives are fitted with an integrated air and vacuum braking system, which allows for braking on all types of wagons, as well as independent locomotive braking. They also incorporate a metallic spring suspension and friction snubbers,” he says.

Full instrumentation and safety circuits offer engine and transmission protection, while the power shift enables gear change to be carried out at full engine power and speed in any gear.

“The cab and bonnet structures are fabricated from 3CR12 steel plate, offering excellent corrosion resistance and weather protection. The driver controls are ergonomically located on both sides of the operating cab to facilitate optimum driver visibility,” notes Mulaudzi.

Meanwhile, he explains that the African mining sector is cost-driven and cheaper equipment is always appealing. “However, the long-term costs of maintenance can prove to be far higher, as cheaper locomotives are of inferior quality and require considerably more maintenance and repair.”