OREANDA-NEWS. August 27, 2014. Overhaul and modernization of multiple locomotive series is currently carried out at the Company’s Polar Division within the scope of technical railway transport modernization program.

2TE116 series mainline engines are currently being overhauled at Voronezh Locomotive Plant to extend their service life. Eight locomotives have already returned to Norilsk and are now in operation with another one scheduled to be sent back in August upon completion of the overhaul. Two more locomotives will be serviced next year.

Locomotive fleet modernization program also focuses on upgrading TEM 2 series using General Electric’s technical capabilities. Such works are currently carried out at May 1 Kirov Machinery Plant. Upgrades include replacement of diesel generators with new power modules (MiniSkid) manufactured by General Electric to increase engine power capacity from 882 to 1490 kW.

Modernization works have been completed on four locomotives (three currently in operation, one more undergoing final preparations). Another three engines have been sent to the Kirov Plant in late August and are scheduled to return to Norilsk in Q4 2014 with plans for three more locomotives to be upgraded next year. Overhaul and modernization program will allow the Company to provide locomotives with advanced equipment, extend service life, improve their power capacity and efficiency, extend intermaintenance period, elevate safety characteristics and improve working conditions of locomotive crews.