British Westinghouse built these three electric locomotives, at their Trafford Park factory, for the Oakbank Oil Company in Mid Calder, West Lothian in the early twentieth century for use on the company's private narrow gauge (762mm) railway. The locomotives had DC series-wound motors with reduction gear drive and coupling rods to the wheels. The first two locomotives had 50hp motors with a single reduction gear. The third had a 95hp motor and double reduction gear. This allowed for the motor to run at higher speeds and the electrical equipment to be placed above the wheels allowing for easier maintenance as well as higher power. The higher centre of gravity and spring suspension also improving riding on poor quality track [1].
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| Locomotive on test at Westinghouse works [1] |
| Information |
| Number built: |
3 |
| Built: |
1908 |
| Builder: |
British Westinghouse |
| Motor: |
Westinghouse electric motor (500v DC third rail) |
| Power: |
50 hp (37 kW) / 95 hp (71 kW) |
| Wheel arrangement: |
0-4-0 |
The third locomotive was able to haul coal trains weighing over 145 tons. The illustration above demonstrates the access panels for the motor and electrical equipment. The locomotives could take electricity from a trolly pole or a third rail (which was used by Oakbank Oil).
[1] A.C. Kelly, "A new electric locomotive", The Electrician (May 15 1908) p. 108
