In August 2024, Knorr-Bremse South Africa (KBSA), a subsidiary of the Munich-based Knorr-Bremse Group, a global leader in braking systems for rail and commercial vehicles, announced the successful delivery of braking systems for 200 HL6-type wagons ordered by Nacala Logistics.
By November 2024, KBSA confirmed the successful commissioning of 50 out of the 100 wagons supplied by JSPL – Jindal Steel, which was rebranded as Texmaco Rail & Engineering Limited following its acquisition in September 2024. The commissioning process ensured the seamless integration and optimal functionality of the braking systems, preparing the wagons for operational deployment. This, amongst others, includes brake system design and layout, single car testing, and training, ensuring the customer understands the functioning of the individual components and system, and how to correctly test and certify the wagon brake system.
Project Details
KBSA secured the order for the braking systems in November 2023, as part of a contract awarded by Nacala Logistics to supply 100 wagons each from two manufacturers—Qiqihar of China and JSPL of India. For this project, the AAR-style Tandem Brake System was selected, offering a cost-effective mechanical alternative to the widely known ECP-style brake systems.
The Tandem Brake System operates in a master-slave configuration, supplied in pairs of wagons (50 pairs for 100 wagons). Key features of the system include:
- DB60 L Valves: Serving as the primary control valve, capable of supporting brake pipe lengths exceeding 75 feet.
- Brake Cylinder and Pipe: Ensuring effective braking force transmission to the slave wagon.
- AAR double acting Slack Adjusters: Ensuring consistent brake block force during brake block ware.
- Vent Valve: Handling emergency braking applications for the slave wagon.
This design reduces complexity, enhances reliability, and minimises maintenance requirements, offering significant cost savings due to the absence of complex electronic components.
