WH Davis, the UK’s only remaining independent manufacturer of railway wagons, has obtained a multimillion-pound contract to deliver 150 freight railway wagons to Ireland. This is the company’s first export deal in two decades, supported by the government’s UK Export Finance Bond Support Scheme. The contract, which is part of a decade-long agreement, may expand the total number of wagons supplied to 400.
Expanding their Workforce
In response to this significant contract, WH Davis plans to expand its workforce by 25%, increasing from 80 to 100 employees. This expansion aims to meet the increased production demands and is expected to revitalise employment in Shirebrook, a former mining village in the East Midlands.
Advancements in Manufacturing
As part of the new contract, WH Davis is expected to start implementing some advanced manufacturing technologies, including the integration of vacuum conveyor systems, like those at www.aptech.uk.com/pneumatic-conveying-systems/vacuum-conveying-systems/. These systems will improve the efficiency of the production process and make sure that the freight wagons are finished on time to meet the demands of the Irish rail network.
New Railway Wagon Capabilities
These new wagons will provide 33% more carrying capacity, now carrying between 62 and 65 tonnes, than the Iarnród Éireann old fleet and can travel faster, reaching a maximum speed of 110 km/h, compared to the previous speed of 80 km/h. With these larger and quicker wagons, more businesses across Ireland will be able to benefit from more efficient goods and freight transportation. Talks regarding the next phase of the wagon contract are already in progress, opening possibilities for potentially expanded export opportunities.