ACD6064 & ACD6048 Condobolin West NSW. Wed 16th Apr 2025

Описание: Aurizon/TGE express intermodal service 3SP1 passes through Condobolin West NSW bound for Perth WA, another three days away. The service is usually the stable of the "ACD" class and today is no exception with ACD6064 & ACD6048 in charge.

The "in-line" locomotive refuelling tankers can be seen directly behind the locomotives thus reducing fuel stops along the way. Pacific National trialed this concept on the main west but failed to adopt it.

Sheep and cropping are the mainstay of this rural area just out of Condobolin with cotton grown further west around Kiacatoo.

The "ACD" class are GE model C44aci series and made by United Goninan Limited at Newcastle NSW under license from GE Transportation, in the USA. The original design concept is derived from the "NR" class GE Cv40-9i model built between 1996 & 1998.

Over 230 of the C44aci series have been built at Newcastle NSW by UGL for various operators. Powered by a four-stroke turbo charged GE 7FDL-16EFI prime mover delivering BHP 4,500hp, and a Net THP of 4,356hp. Published track speed is 115KMh.

The locomotives have three operating weights, based on maximum fuel levels for each application, they being 7,300 litres for intermodal at 134 tonnes, 10,750 litres for intermediate and 13,500 litres for coal working (Hunter Valley NSW) at 139 tonnes. Fuel level selection is controlled by an electronic switch function in the cab to prevent over filling.

First of the "ACD" class to enter service was "ACD6046" on the 19th of March 2022, ACD6048, in this video, was handed over new on the 23rd of April 2022 and ACD6064 on the 24th of February 2025, with the last to be "ACD6075" in October 2025. The "ACD" class have a very popular reputation for reliability, a good ride at speed and excellent crew cab facilities.

0920hrs on Wednesday 16th of April 2025.