The company has delivered 50 lightweight dual-purpose wagons to a major logistics firm operating between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia.
Galison Manufacturing is celebrating the successful fulfilment of a significant order. The company has delivered 50 lightweight dual-purpose wagons to a major logistics firm operating between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia. This accomplishment marks a milestone in addressing complex transportation needs in the region.
The order, initiated in mid-2023, involved the production of specialised wagons capable of carrying both containers and non-containerised cargo. These versatile wagons were engineered to transport various goods, including copper and sulphur in bags with high sides. One of the standout features of these wagons is their construction using high-strength steel, which significantly reduces their weight to less than 15 tons. This reduction optimises their load-carrying capacity, enabling efficient transportation of goods across long distances.
In addition, the wagons were built with friction bogies on the contact side, which was added to improve handling. This design ensures safer and more dependable freight transportation by reducing dangers like derailments and wheel wear and tear. This level of attention to detail demonstrates Galison Manufacturing’s dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions that put efficiency and safety in the rail industry first.
Galison has been manufacturing new surface ore wagons and other freight wagons for the past 15 years
The production process was carried out in Galison’s state-of-the-art Welkom facility, which is certified ISO 9001/2015. The company’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality throughout the production process is demonstrated by this accreditation. The facility guarantees accuracy and productivity in manufacturing because of its state-of-the-art automated gear, which includes robotic welding, computerised chassis drilling, and high-definition plasma cutting.
Andrew Thorburn, the CEO of Galison, expressed pride in the successful completion of the project. He emphasised the company’s ongoing commitment to its customers and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. “By delivering top-quality products that address critical logistical challenges, Galison is actively contributing to the enhancement of regional logistics and fostering economic growth.”
Galison Manufacturing’s recent success in meeting the demand for lightweight dual-purpose wagons is an important turning point for the rail industry. With a persistent dedication to quality, cutting-edge production methods, and creative design, the company is still a key player in meeting the region’s complicated transportation needs. Galison is still well-positioned to provide innovative logistics solutions that promote growth and development in Southern Africa and beyond, even as the need for dependable and effective logistics solutions increases.
275 new container wagons for the Lobito railway project
In May 2024 Galison Manufacturing was awarded a contract to supply 275 container wagons over a period of 30 months to the Lobito Atlantic Railway. The Lobito Corridor, a vital trade route in Africa, is set for a significant boost in freight capacity thanks to a new contract between the Lobito Atlantic Railway consortium and South Africa’s Galison Manufacturing. This agreement underlines the consortium’s commitment to its $455 million investment in Angola’s infrastructure.
The Lobito Atlantic Railway, a collaborative effort by Trafigura, Mota-Engil, and Vecturis, commenced operations in July 2023. The consortium manages a 1 744 kilometre railway line with a gauge of 1067 millimetres, stretching from the Angolan port city of Lobito to Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Their concession agreement for operating the railway spans 30 years, with the potential for a 20-year extension upon meeting specific investment benchmarks, which include the aforementioned $455 million.
The contract with Galison Manufacturing represents a crucial step in achieving these investment goals. While the exact value remains undisclosed, estimates suggest it falls within the $35 to $50 million range.
The container wagons will be manufactured at Galison’s Welkom factory, using the latest technology and equipment. This includes CNC drills, profiling machines, and presses, ensuring precision and efficiency in production. The welding process will be conducted using advanced robotic cells to enhance quality and consistency. Each wagon will be constructed from high-strength steel, reducing its empty weight to 13.5 tons. This design optimises the cargo-carrying capacity, enabling each wagon to transport more freight while maintaining structural integrity and durability.
Galison has been manufacturing new surface ore wagons and other freight wagons for the past 15 years.
