EnerGenix
‍Case Studies

‍Project Overview

We were engaged by South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society to diagnose and restore the electrical control systems of a heritage locomotive following a significant control failure. The locomotive relied on obsolete traction control hardware, and a discontinued Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) Module, presenting a high risk to operational continuity.

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The Challenge

The locomotive’s original VFD module had been discontinued by the manufacturer over a decade earlier, with no direct replacement available. The original equipment supplier was no longer trading, and manufacturer support was unavailable. This meant fault codes could not be accessed while the VFD was non-operational, and critical safety systems, including the Driver’s Safety Device, were affected.

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Our Approach

We adopted a structured, component-level engineering approach:

• Conducted detailed bench and on-site diagnostics to identify failed IGBT modules.

• Verified power and control circuits to eliminate secondary faults.

• Repaired and reinstated a functional IGBT assembly to restore traction control.

• Reinstated and verified operation of the Driver’s Safety Device.

• Investigated refurbished and alternative VFD solutions to manage long-term obsolescence.

• Worked collaboratively with railway volunteers to coordinate safe and efficient delivery.

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The Outcome

A clear forward strategy was established to manage future obsolescence, providing confidence that the asset could continue operating without immediate large-scale replacement.

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Client Benefit

• Avoid the cost of immediate full system replacement.

• Provided a clear roadmap for future upgrades or substitutions.

• Established a trusted ongoing technical support relationship.

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Client Testimonial

“EnerGenix Engineering is in the process of bringing the Clayton Built Battery Electric locomotive Carlisle into service for the South Tynedale Railway (STR). Carlisle has been thoroughly checked over by engineer, Theo. He has been most thorough and has found numerous faults, dealing with each one quickly and efficiently. Theo has been conscientious in his work and interacted well with STR’s own engineers. His methodical fault-finding skills have been second to none. Throughout the process, Theo has kept us up to date on progress and provided an explanation of his actions. STR would not hesitate to call on EnerGenix Engineering again.”

Ian Millward
Chairman, South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society

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