Exciting Breakthrough in Rail Transport: Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Locomotive Conversion Announced!
The rail industry is on the cusp of a revolutionary transformation as a Class 60 diesel locomotive is set to be converted to a hydrogen-powered steam freight locomotive, presenting a potential alternative to electrification for zero-emission heavy freight operations.
The Vision for Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Locomotives
This ambitious project involves transforming a Brush Traction locomotive from the early 1990s into a state-of-the-art 2 MW steam locomotive. The key innovation lies in replacing the traditional heavy diesel engine with a cutting-edge system comprising 20 modular high-pressure steam generators that burn hydrogen. Complemented by four steam turbines and 140 kg of gas storage, this new setup promises zero emissions, potentially using green hydrogen produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources.
What is Hydrogen Power?
Hydrogen power uses the energy stored in hydrogen gas. When hydrogen burns or is used in a fuel cell, it combines with oxygen to create water and energy. This process is clean, only producing water vapour and heat, making it a great alternative to fossil fuels. Green hydrogen, made by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy like wind or solar power, ensures the whole process is sustainable and doesn’t produce carbon emissions.
Project New Dawn: Leading the Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Revolution
Named “New Dawn” in homage to “Evening Star,” the last steam locomotive built for British Rail, this initiative is spearheaded by the innovative company Steamology. Known for developing advanced steam technology for industrial and marine applications, Steamology previously supplied a 100 kW range extender demonstrator for a Vivarail Class 230 multiple-unit. The New Dawn project represents a significant step forward in their vision for sustainable rail transport.
Collaborative Effort in Developing Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Locomotives
The project is a collaborative endeavour, with engineering expertise provided by Arup, the locomotive supplied by rolling stock leasing company Eversholt Rail, and operational insights from Freightliner. This groundbreaking initiative is backed by funding from Innovate UK, underscoring the government’s commitment to pioneering green technology in the transport sector.
The Path Forward for Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Technology
According to Steamology’s CEO Matt Candy, detailed design work for the project is now underway, with the conversion slated for completion by 2025. Trials are expected to commence within 18 months to two years, potentially leading to mainline certification. If successful, this technology could be retrofitted to existing locomotives or integrated into new designs, offering a versatile solution for the rail industry.
Candy highlights that their steam technology is already operational at full scale in other sectors, and this rail project will showcase its potential for repowering heavy-duty transport assets with long lifespans. The energy density of this steam technology could provide a superior alternative to heavy batteries, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable rail freight.
Broader Implications of Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Locomotives
While the UK locomotive market is relatively modest, Candy envisions substantial opportunities in the larger US market. The success of this project could influence rail transport globally, promoting a shift towards zero-emission freight solutions.
Andrew Went, UKIMEA Rail Business & Global High-Speed Rail Leader at Arup, emphasises that decarbonised rail transport is crucial for sustainable infrastructure. The innovative technology being developed offers a promising pathway to decarbonise heavy-haul freight, one of the most challenging modes of rail transport to make environmentally friendly.
Industry Support for Hydrogen-Powered Steam Freight Locomotives
Freightliner Group CEO Tim Shoveller expresses strong support for the initiative, recognising rail freight’s existing environmental benefits over road transport, which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 76%. Eversholt Rail’s Client Services Director Paul Sutherland shares this enthusiasm, noting the company’s long-standing commitment to investing in rail vehicle innovations and looking forward to the potential of this new technology.
Conclusion
The hydrogen-powered steam freight locomotive conversion project marks an exciting breakthrough in rail transport. By leveraging green hydrogen and advanced steam technology, it aims to provide a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional diesel engines, potentially transforming the future of rail freight. As the project progresses, it holds the promise of setting new standards for zero-emission transport, both in the UK and globally.
At GPC, we support moves to greener energy and are excited to see where the freight industry goes with these innovative technologies.
