Cab Air Conditioning Retrofit for Grindrod Shunting Locomotive (GS7 Series)

A Grindrod Rail shunting/short haul locomotive (GS7 series) has been equipped with a DC13004 74 Vdc rooftop air conditioning system, improving operator comfort and reliability in demanding industrial and mining environments. Designed for low speed shunting, yard operations, and short haul duties, GS7 locomotives operate in high temperature conditions where dependable cab climate control is essential. The DC13004 rooftop unit was selected for its compact design, dc power compatibility, and suitability for retrofit applications.

The system delivers up to 3,8–3,9 kW of cooling capacity and operates on a 74 Vdc supply, making it compatible with industrial locomotive electrical systems. An integrated PLC controller with diagnostic display enables reliable operation, fault monitoring, and simplified maintenance, while Modbus RS 485 allows optional remote control or system integration.

Built for harsh environments, the unit features a robust steel housing, non flammable R134a refrigerant, and stable performance at ambient temperatures up to 45 °C. The supplied retrofit kit allows installation with minimal modification, supporting fast deployment and reduced downtime.

This project highlights how modern DC powered HVAC solutions can enhance Grindrod shunting locomotives, improving working conditions while maintaining reliability in heavy industrial rail operations.