Flexikit - Third Generation .... have your say!

[Geoff Nicholls]

John,
If you're thinking of producing an all steel open wagon using the flexikit technique, how thick is the body? Can you cast it that thin? when I finish my 08 shunter in EWS livery, I'll need some wagons for it, they're all steel, e.g.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jmupton2000/7027842113/

[John Candy]

Geoff,

2mm is about the thinnest possible for a long side and I would normally recommend reinforcing that with a fitted "load" to prevent bowing when squeezed!

The link you gave shows a wagon with substantial outside square steel framing, so that would not require internal bracing and the thickness of the plating would be disguised by the top edge framing.

I don't know (almost dread to think) what Mike will have to say about producing such a wagon!

My idea of a "modern" wagon is the Felix Pole GWR all steel 20 tonners!

Regards,
John.

[MikeWilliams]

I agree with John that the substantial framing should make that possible in resin, and the low height of the side doesn't leave a large thin piece susceptible to warping either.  Biggest problem I can see is the large number of patterns required for castings.  Axleguards, buffers (couplings?), brakes .. absolutely everything is new.  And, with a wheelbase that long I believe that springing or compensation are not just desirable but necessary.

In short, a lot of work but no serious technical problems.

Mike

[Geoff Nicholls]

Thank you both for the quick response. I'll work to that 2mm thickness when I produce my first wagon. And point taken about suspension. A lot of these steel box wagons are new bodies on the underframes of earlier obsolete BR wagons, if I choose the prototype carefully I might have two wagons for the work of three halves.
I'll probably ask the DEMU types, who I know have done some casting themselves, as they know the real thing,  but if they baulk at something that large,  I may need to ask if you could do it as a commission.

[Andy B]

MHA's were converted from the HAA MGR coal hoppers.
The conversion is too recent, but a quick search has identified some HAA drawings - if they're of any use for the grubby bits below solebar level!
So far, GA, Underframe arrangement and body arrangement - so a reasonable chance of finding some details too.

Andy

[Geoff Nicholls]

Andy,
GA drawings of the HAA would be an excellent start. They themselves seem to still be around as well.
so, yes, please

John, Mike,
sorry I've co-opted your thread, for my own purposes.