NRE 3GS21C

NRE 3GS21C

Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder National Railway Equipment (NREC) Model 3GS21C Build date 2008 – Present Total produced 16

Specifications Gauge 4 ft 8 ^1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) Prime mover Cummins QSK19C (×3) Engine type Diesel engine Aspiration Turbocharger Cylinders 6 (×3)

Performance figures Power output 2,100 hp (1,570 kW)

The NRE 3GS21B is a low-emissions diesel road switcher locomotive built by National Railway Equipment. It is powered by three Cummins QSK19C I6 engines with each one developing 700 horsepower (522 kW) and creating a total power output of 2,100 horsepower (1,570 kW). At least 16^[1][2] 3GS21C genset locomotives have been produced to date at NREC's Mount Vernon shops in Southern Illinois.^[3]

Flexibility

Because the engines are modular, flexibility is obtained:

• If one engine fails, the others can continue at reduced power.
• If a lower axle load is needed, one engine can be left off.
• When reduced power is needed, one or more of the engines can be turned off, saving fuel and wear and tear.
• The QSK19C engine is common to the four variants of the NRE 3GS21C engine.
• The QSK19C engines from Cummins is widely used for non-railway applications, and spare parts are readily available.^[4]

References

1. CSXT 1600 includes link to more photos
2. BNSF Locomotive Roster
3. Train Web: Gensets Gen-set switchers by National Railway Equipment.
4. http://www.cummins.rs/pocetna_stranica_files/qsk19m.pdf