Client commission leads to new product for equipment manufacturer

Sheffield manufacturer, Mechan, is extending its portfolio of rail depot handling equipment, after developing a new product for longstanding client, Siemens Mobility Limited.

The firm is now offering bogie lifters to the rail market, after designing and producing a set of 22 for a specialist overhaul facility in Lincoln.

Bogie lifters work in pairs to raise a bogie frame to a comfortable height for maintenance and repairs to take place underneath.

Siemens Mobility approached Mechan to tender for a set to replace ageing equipment and the two firms worked together to perfect the design, ensuring it provided maximum efficiency and safety.

The new lifters were installed at Siemens Mobility in Lincoln at the beginning of the month, where they will be used to service bogies from the Eurostar, Desiro and Thameslink trains.

It is the first time Mechan has supplied this location, although its equipment is in use at eight of the company’s other UK facilities.

Lindsey Mills, Mechan’s sales manager, said: “Siemens Mobility approached us about designing bogie lifters because of our reputation for high-quality equipment.

“Thanks to our existing relationship, the client also knows we have the in-house skills to deliver exactly to its specification.

“Many depots use bogie rotators to raise a frame and they have been a staple in our product portfolio for many years, but we are pleased to now be offering the sector a cost-effective alternative, when there is no need for the bogie to revolve.”

Bogie lifters work in synchronised pairs to grip the bogie securely and lift it to a desired height, within a fine tolerance.

They are designed to allow maximum clearance around the frame, giving operators access to all areas when dismantling and reassembling the unit.