Aurizon electric locomotives

Early in 1978, discussions were commenced on possible electrification of the Blackwater and Goonyella coal networks.

The decision was made to electrify with the 25 kV AC railway electrification system as used in the Brisbane suburban network.

Electrification of the line from Newlands coal mine to Collinsville and north-east to Abbott Point.

In 1986 it was decided to electrify the North Coast line between Brisbane and Gladstone instead and this became known as Stage 4.

The colour scheme was orange on either end, predominately white sides and green trim.

This three bogie, two axle, arrangement gave better weight distribution of the much heavier locomotives as well as better tractive effort and wheel flange wear.

After the stepping down of the voltage the AC power is converted to DC by a bridge rectifier for use by the traction motors.

After the stepping down of the voltage the AC power is converted to DC by a rectifier bridge for use by the traction motors.

[9] Queensland Rail decided that the last thirty 3600 class locomotives would be used on passenger and general freight work and thus were built with gearing allowing for a higher top end speed as the 3900 class.

[10] In 2003 a contract was awarded to Downer EDI to rebuild 18 as the 3550 class for coal line operation.

[11] Because these locomotives were designed for freight and not coal traffic a different gear ratio was used.

[11] By the late 1990s discussions were underway to find possible solutions to issue of the ageing electric locomotive fleet.

After considerable consultation with industry leaders and manufactures, it was decided to rebuild the existing fleet as well as buy new locomotives.

Deemed a success, it was decided to rebuild the rest of the class at United Group's Townsville and Broadmeadow factories.

The weight and dimensions of the 3100 class meant that they had to have components removed at the Jilalan Depot, Mackay before they could be moved by rail to Townsville.

These components were used both for spare parts for the rest of the 3100/3200 class and to allow a reduction in weight to comply with mainline track gauge restrictions.

At Townsville the locomotives were stripped down to the body shell with all internal components removed.

German company Siemens Mobility was awarded a contract for 20 3800 class locomotives.