01.10.07
IFC fuelling system keeps Virgin on track
The first European scheduled passenger train to run on biodiesel is being kept on track with the help of Industrial Flow Control Ltd.
IFC, based in Essex, was called in to create a bespoke biofuel dispensing system for the adapted Virgin Voyager train which is being trialled on a B20 blend of biodiesel for six months.
The system comprises a dispensing cabinet including tank, controller, pump and all associated pipework.
Two systems have been installed at Bombardier Transportation depots in Crofton in Wakefield, and Central Rivers in Barton-under-Needwood, Staffordshire. The train being trialled is running on a number of key routes across the UK.
IFC is the only specialist fuelling equipment supplier in the UK rail market and so was able to provide exactly what Virgin were looking for, with the system British made.
IFC managing director Carl Lilley said: “We are delighted to be involved in these trials. We have many years’ experience in the manufacture of fuel handling systems.
“As demand for environmentally friendly alternatives increases, biofuels are becoming increasingly popular.
“The technology required to handle these fuels has been developed by IFC to safely fuel the trains of the future.”
Biofuels presented a number of difficulties that had to be overcome by IFC when designing the dispensing system. This included using alternative materials that were resistant to biofuels and ensuring the new system had the ability to handle varying grades of fuel in order to prepare for different mixes of biofuels in the future.
IFC was recommended to Virgin following a different trial by the Rail Safety and Standards Board. They called upon IFC for bespoke fuelling equipment when trialling the use of ultra low sulphur diesel in locomotives.
IFC offers a complete range of fuel delivery systems for various modes of transport including road, rail and marine. IFC manufactures to order but also holds some stock, ensuring speedy on-site delivery when time is of the essence.
The Virgin biodiesel trial runs until December.
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