British Rail GT3

GT3 was a prototype mainline gas turbine locomotive. It was built in 1961 by English Electric at their Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows to demonstrate its wares to British Railways. It was designed by Vulcan engineer J. O. P. Hughes and the project was started in the early 1950s. Externally, it resembled a steam tender locomotive. In the case of GT3, the tender carried diesel fuel.

Gas Turbine 3
GT3 at Leicester in 1961
Type and origin Power type Gas Turbine mechanical Builder English Electric at Vulcan Foundry Serial number Vulcan Foundry: D228 Build date 1958–1961
Specifications Configuration: ​  • Whyte 4-6-0  • UIC 2'C Driver dia. 5 ft 9 in (1.753 m) Length 68 ft 0+1⁄2 in (20.74 m) Loco weight 79.80 long tons (81.08 t) Tender weight 44 long tons (45 t) Prime mover EM27L gas turbine Transmission Mechanical: flexible drive from gearbox onto middle driving axle Train heating Steam generator
Performance figures Top speed 90 mph (140 km/h) Power output 2,750 hp (2,050 kW) Tractive effort 38,000 lbf (169.03 kN)
Career Railroad(s) British Rail Number GT3 Disposition Returned to VF 1962; turbine removed; scrapped T.W. Ward, Salford, March 1966

Related pages

• British Rail 18000 (GT1)
• British Rail 18100 (GT2)