On May 13th, TapTechNews reported that China's first export of the world's largest narrow-gauge AC transmission locomotive to Sierra Leone has recently started operation in Tonkolili, Sierra Leone. This batch of locomotives was customized by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of CRRC, according to Africa's narrow-gauge railway standards.
According to official sources, this is the first international application of the center corridor layout and independent ventilation technology for locomotives. This design optimizes internal space layout while also enhancing operational and maintenance convenience.
These locomotives utilize AC transmission technology, equipped with domestically-produced medium-speed diesel engines with a power of 3680 kilowatts. They can achieve a traction capacity of ten thousand tons with dual locomotives. The integrated multi-system technology enhances the safety and reliability of the entire vehicle.
These locomotives will serve the Tonkolili Iron Ore Mine in Sierra Leone (TapTechNews note: the world's largest single-body magnetite mine), aiming to improve local ore transportation efficiency and the overall level of railway transport.