FS Class D443

Class D443
A tandem of D443 locomotives at Rocchetta.
Power type	Diesel
Builder	FIAT Grandi Motori, Breda
Build date	1967-1970
Total produced	50
AAR wheel arr.	Bo-Bo
Gauge	1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in)
Length	14.1 m
Locomotive weight	72.1 t
Fuel type	Diesel
Transmission	Electric
Top speed	130 km/h (81 mph)
Power output	1,350 hp (1,010 kW)
Career	FS/Trenitalia and others

The FS Class D443 is a class of diesel-electric locomotive used in Italy, introduced in the late 1960s and still in service.

History

D443 was ordered by the Italian state railways, Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), at the same time than the D343, but requiring generally higher performances and multi-role capabilities. The two types shared the same hull and the single-motored bogies, which had been designed by FS. 30 units were to be built by FIAT, the remaining 20 by Breda. The D443 were mainly to replace the old steam locomotives which were used for heavy freight trains on light, not-electrified lines.

Description

D443 has one cab at each end, separated by two compartments including the engine-transmission pack and, in the other, the cooling devices. The two engine were both V-12 piston with 1,900 hp (1,400 kW) of power, coupled to a DC 640/1080 V generator provided by Ansaldo. The two electric motors, designed by Breda, had a continuous power output of 622 kW.

References

• Servizio Mat. e Trazione (1971). Automotrici termiche. Florence: Ferrovie dello Stato. 

External links

• Website with data (Italian)