Heavy Haul Rail Limited has received MWA-C covered freight railcars from Porterbrook, which were converted from HHA tipper railcars.
“We are delighted to be working with Heavy Haul Rail Limited on this sustainable initiative, converting these assets into closed freight cars, which will play an important role in transporting volumes across the network for many years to come,” said Max Ordish, Head of Freight and Commercial Projects at Porterbrook, stated Max Ordish, Director of the freight and commercial projects department at Porterbrook.
The project began in December 2024 as part of a contract between Porterbrook, a UK-based owner and supplier of railway rolling stock, and the operator Heavy Haul Rail Limited. The 14-month contract involved the conversion of 77 HHA wagons into closed freight wagons.
“It is a significant achievement to see these 76 coal wagons converted, which now serve customers in the UK, as part of our long-term plan to meet the growing demand for bulk freight transport,” said Dave Penney, CEO of Heavy Haul Rail Limited.
Conversion to covered freight cars, carried out by WH Davis
The work was carried out at the WH Davis facility in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, and the cars were converted for the transport of construction materials and other types of bulk cargo.
An innovative design was used for the conversion, featuring a lighter, stronger, and more durable structure that maximizes load capacity while reusing the bogies, braking equipment, and other components from the original cars.
This sustainable solution aims to extend the service life of the rolling stock and increase operational reliability. Key design improvements include inward-opening doors and a contoured underframe to facilitate unloading.
“It is a source of pride to see these innovative railcars in commercial service, and we are delighted to have been part of this partnership with Porterbrook and Heavy Haul Rail. The enclosed railcars will support industry growth and strengthen the sustainable shift from road to rail transport for the next 30 years and beyond,” said Andy Houghton, Managing Director of WH Davis.
The converted railcars are designed to meet the growing demand for bulk rail freight, with a single loaded train capable of replacing approximately 140 truck trips.
Share on: 
