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Scanning a Masterpiece

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Today, 17 November 2016, a very important step forward was achieved in the production of the Masterpiece Models Class 52 'Western' diesel hydraulic. At Kidderminster Diesel Depot on the Severn Valley Railway, highly detailed 3D laser scans were captured of the only main line certified member of the class, No. D1015 Western Champion.

6104Thanks to the tremendous access afforded to us by the owners of the locomotive, the Diesel Traction Group, specialist scanning company The Severn Partnership of Shrewsbury was able to gather complex data which will help us make the forthcoming model more accurate than anything that has gone before. The data-rich scans will be translated into CAD files to ensure that the elusive shape of these hugely charismatic locomotives – especially the difficult shapes around the cab roof, windows and frontal area – are rendered with an exactitude not previously seen.

Not only were the body shapes scanned in detail, but also the interiors of the cabs and engine room, bogie details and even the underside of the locomotive from the depot's pit. Despite the cramped space inside the engine room, scanning team leader Shelby Green was impressed by the 1962 Swindon-built locomotive: "It certainly makes an interesting change from scanning structures and engineering projects," she said.

6109Many other design aspects of the model are already well advanced with our builders in Korea having developed a new Swiss-powered drive-train which will give the Masterpiece Models Western performance to match its appearance.

Already proving to be one of the most popular locomotives we have produced, the Class 52 'Western' is scheduled for production following our GWR/BR 57XX pannier tanks. Details can be found HERE.