Swiss train manufacturer Stadler has signed a contract with electro mechanical repair specialist Houghton International to extend maintenance support for the Tyne and Wear Metro until October 2023. Houghton International will work with Stadler to deliver an accelerated maintenance plan, increasing contracted volumes to extend the life of the current fleet of trains until the transition to a new fleet of trains from 2023.
The scope of the agreement covers both planned maintenance and emergency repairs and encompasses assets including traction motors, motor alternator sets and compressor motors.
The renewal of the maintenance contract follows the announcement that Stadler will be providing Nexus Metro with a complete fleet renewal and brand-new depot by 2025. Stadler assumed responsibility from Nexus for servicing and maintenance of the Metro’s fleet in October 2020.
Chris Robson, Sales Director at Houghton International stated:
“Having worked closely with Nexus and Tyne and Wear Metro for almost 15 years it is great to start a new journey with Stadler and continue to support the existing vehicles until their end of life.
“It is satisfying to know that Stadler will continue to trust Houghton International to support the ongoing maintenance of traction motors, as well as other components, as they condense the maintenance programme to coincide with the depot demolition and new depot build. Our expertise in traction motors and other light rail assets means Houghton International is well placed to continue to provide support.
“We aim to build a strong working relationship with Stadler, both on the existing fleet of vehicles and then supporting the new fleet when it starts to arrive in 2023.”
Marc Robson, fleet manager at Stadler, commented: “Houghton International is already working with us to support our traction motor maintenance programme, so when we required further rotating machinery support for our accelerated maintenance plan, they were the natural choice.
“Their commitment and willingness to serve Stadler and the community as a whole has always stood out, and communication at all levels has been consistently excellent.
“Houghton International has proved quick to mobilise and provides high quality overhauls with a speedy turnaround. The fact that they are based locally means that together, we are able to work nimbly to resolve any issues that may arise.
“We look forward to our continued close working, as we move from the old fleet to the new one.”
For more information about Houghton International’s specialist electro-mechanical solutions, visit www.houghton-international.com
