Loram UK to keep Network Rail’s Flying Banana moving

Loram UK, the leading rail and rolling stock maintenance specialists, has agreed a major partnership with Network Rail to service its New Measurement Train (NMT).

The seven-figure agreement will see Derby-based Loram UK conduct a major mid-life overhaul of the NMT, known affectionately as the Flying Banana because of its yellow livery and high-speed operation.

The NMT monitors and records track condition information at speeds up to 125mph, helping to identify faults before they become a safety issue or affect line performance. It also helps to prevent unnecessary maintenance work. Network Rail said the train was the “most technically advanced train of its type in the world”.

The agreement is the latest between Loram UK and Network Rail and Andrew Watson, Loram UK’s International Business Development Director, said the programme would be vital to extending the life and performance of the Flying Banana.

“There is only one in the UK so the work it does is vital in measuring rail infrastructure to allow maintenance to take place and keep high-speed rail going.

“When you consider how important high-speed rail is to the UK, whether it is moving people or goods, the importance of the NMT cannot be understated and we are very proud to be working on it.”

The train, converted from an Intercity train, is equipped with high-tech measurement systems, track scanners, and high-resolution cameras, measuring the condition of the tracks and overhead line equipment at high speed. It records data points, which are then passed to the relevant infrastructure managers to assess.

Andrew said: “Without it and the monitoring work it does, high speed trains would not run at high speed. What we will be doing is essentially amid-life extension programme for the next 12-14 months.

“We are delighted to be continuing to grow our trusted partner relationship with Network Rail to provide maintenance and service work for them.”

Image credit: Network Rail