18.04.13
Railway Challenge 2013 competition launched
IMechE is launching its 2013 Railway Challenge competition, taking place near Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire.
Five teams will compete to design and manufacture the most efficient small-scale locomotive. The locos will be judged on their ability to store energy during braking and used to drive up a gradient, as well as two practical challenges covering traction and ride comfort.
The teams are: Huddersfield University, Mott MacDonald’s Youth Team, Manchester Metropolitan University, Birmingham University and last years’ winners, the Interfleet Graduate Team.
Philippa Oldham, head of transport and manufacturing at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said: “The Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Railway Challenge is a fantastic event which really challenges students and apprentices taking part. Teams have to prepare a business case, finance, design, and build a locomotive from scratch. The Challenge is run along the lines of a real-life tendering process, giving teams a taste of a real business experience.
“These locomotives, while small-scale, have to be powerful enough to transport a 600kg load – including one of the Railway Challenge judges. I look forward to seeing if the Interfleet apprentices can defend their title after winning last year’s competition.”
This year’s competition will be held on 29 and 30 June.
Some of RTM’s coverage of last year’s event can be found here, and a video here.
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