
WDM-3A / WDM–2C (Old class name WDM-2C, new class name WDM-3A.) These 3100hp locos are more powerful versions of the WDM-2. The first one was delivered on August 22, 1994. A single WDM-2C could haul a 21-coach passenger train, something that required two of the older WDM-2's. The WDM-2C / WDM-3A also has a rated top speed of 120km/h, and has the same power-pack as the WDG-2 and WDP-2 locos. Early units were air-braked but lately many have been provided dual-braking capability. Dynamic brakes are also provided. The loco has a single cab. Gear ratio 65:18 as with the WDM-2. All recent units have a square profile, but a few early versions have a rounded appearance. Starting in [11/02], even higher powered units (3300hp) have been turned out by DLW, Varanasi, and DCW (DMW), Patiala -- all recent WDM-3A are of 3300hp power rating.
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Read more... DLW has also experimented with improvements to the Alco 251 powerpack to extract 3900hp out of it, and this is being [4/02] tested in a few locomotives.The new class name for these is WDM-3A.
WDM-2CA is a variant of the WDM-2C (numbers beyond #14080). Dual brakes? (not confirmed) These units all had right-hand seating for the driver. Later these were all reclassified WDM-3A along with the WDM-2C locos, but a few remain at Erode shed with the old class name on them [7/05].
Brief Notes
Builders: DLW
Engine: Upgraded (by DLW) Alco 251-C (16 cylinder), 3100hp (2900hp site rating) early models, 3300hp from 2003, 1050rpm max / 400rpm idle; direct fuel injection. Cooling and fans as with WDM-2. ABB VTC304-15 or Napier NA 295 IR turbocharger.
Governor: GE 17MG8 / Woodwards 8574-650.
Transmission: Electric with BHEL TA 10102 CW alternator, 1050rpm, 1130V, 4400A. (Earlier used BHEL TG 10931 AZ alternator.)
Axle Load: 18.8 tonnes. Wheelset: Co-Co trimount bogie.
Starting TE: 30.4t, at adhesion 27%.
Length over buffer beams: 15862m
Distance between bogies: 10516mm.