UGL’s manufacturing and maintenance business in Western Australian is delivering for our alliance partner Wabtec Corporation the life extension program for five of Fortescue’s Dash 9 locomotives.
The Dash 9s operate in the Pilbara and for the life extension work they are being transported to UGL’s Bassendean site in Perth’s eastern suburbs.
“UGL is proud to support Wabtec with our Australian expertise and capability to deliver this life extension program,” Michael Doody-Burras, UGL Business Development Manager, said.
“We know Western Australian companies and government agencies are continuing to look for Australian solutions. We are delighted to provide a truly Western Australian solution to the market with our rail sector and freight maintenance expertise.”
UGL’s alliance with Wabtec stretches over 60 years and includes locomotive manufacturing and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) maintenance services for many of Australia’s freight rail companies and agencies.
The delivery program involves a 3,500km round trip to truck each locomotive from the Pilbara to Perth.
From there, UGL’s skilled team gets to work.
Once on site, the locomotives undergo the life-extension work, which includes engine, bogies, traction motors, wheelsets, cab refurbishments and body work — before rigorous testing ensures they’re ready for continued service.
These heavy-duty locomotives have been the workhorses of Fortescue’s Pilbara operations hauling some of the longest iron ore trains in the world.
“UGL is proud to support Wabtec and Fortescue with this project with a truly Western Australian solution,” said Michael.