ArcGen Hilta and Speedy have won a contract to supply welding generators worth a total of £400,000 to Network Rail, to work in conjunction with Esab’s automated rail repair welding unit. The Weldmaker 165SP2 is a super-silent generator designed for use in a wide variety of applications. Silenced to 60dBA at 7m, it easily meets the latest legislation on noise levels, and it has achieved product approval status from Network Rail after two years of rigorous on-track tests.

Mark Hodgson, chief executive of ArcGen Hilta, said: “We are extremely delighted that Network Rail has recognised the considerable benefits and cost savings that it can achieve by pairing our 165SP2 machine with the automated welding equipment provided by Esab. The 165SP2 only weighs 77kg, and it can also provide auxiliary power, offering exceptional performance.” The unit is also very fuel-efficient due to its ‘auto idle’ device; it can operate for at least 10hr without the need for refuelling, which is ideal for Network Rail engineers working on-site.

Dil Masters of Speedy said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Network Rail. We manage their fleet, which sees us sourcing, servicing and maintaining their equipment through our seven dedicated rail depots.”

The picture shows (left to right) Mark Hodgkins, Ronie Kayle (Network Rail’s plant support engineer) and Ray Lee (Speedy’s northern-region manager).