World’s longest train saves Transnet R1bn
The September test with 375 wagons in a 4km-long train proved the concept that TFR could haul manganese in this configuration
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) saved more than R1bn by successfully testing the world's longest train with the intention of serving growing demand from SA's manganese miners for access to export markets for the key steel ingredient, adding 1-million tons of extra capacity on its network. SA has the world's largest manganese deposits and is a leading player in supplying the mineral to steel mills, but mining companies have long complained about limited rail capacity being the bottleneck on exports. Transnet had looked at options of expanding capacity on the line between Hotazel and Port Elizabeth and introduce new rolling stock in an expensive programme. The use of the Sishen-to-Saldanha line with a mega-train meant a 90% saving worth more than R1bn. Transnet was keen to address these concerns and exploit its existing infrastructure and rolling stock combined with enhanced technology to meet demands from the sector, said Lloyd Tobias, TFR's chief operating officer. The September test wi...
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