FS Class D.443

From Wikipedia the free encyclopedia

Class D.443
D.443.1005 at Gela on Sicily, in 1995
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel
BuilderFIAT Grandi Motori, Breda
Build date1967-1970
Total produced50
Specifications
Configuration:
 • UICBo′Bo′
Gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) standard gauge
Length14.1 m (46 ft 3+18 in)
Loco weight72.1 t (71.0 long tons; 79.5 short tons)
Fuel typeDiesel
TransmissionElectric
Performance figures
Maximum speed130 km/h (81 mph)
Power output1,350 hp (1,010 kW)
Career
OperatorsFS/Trenitalia and others

The FS Class D.443 is a class of diesel-electric locomotive used in Italy, introduced in the late 1960s and still in service.

History[edit]

D.443 was ordered by the Italian state railways, Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), at the same time than the D.343, but requiring generally higher performances and multi-role capabilities. The two types shared the same hull and the single-motored bogies, which had been designed by FS. 30 units were to be built by FIAT, the remaining 20 by Breda. The D.443 were mainly to replace the old steam locomotives which were used for heavy freight trains on light, not-electrified lines.

Description[edit]

D.443 has one cab at each end, separated by two compartments including the engine-transmission pack and, in the other, the cooling devices. The two engines were both V-12, 1,900 hp (1,400 kW) of power, coupled to a DC 640/1080 V generator provided by Ansaldo. The two electric motors, designed by Breda, had a continuous power output of 622 kW (834 hp).

Successors[edit]

From 1974, the D.445 class was introduced, with an AC alternator. They also supplied electric train heating.

References[edit]

Sources[edit]

  • Servizio Mat. e Trazione (1971). Automotrici termiche. Florence: Ferrovie dello Stato.