Qemetica is expanding its soda and glass transportation volumes for its silicates factory in Żary. Therefore, it has decided to add a unique locomotive to its fleet: diesel locomotive 20D-001 / 3640 082-5 of Tabor Dębica. Qemetica Cargo will hire it for five years.
Previously tested by Qemetica Cargo (formerly Ciech Cargo) in 2023, the 20D locomotive performed well in limestone transport under challenging conditions, including steep 13‰ gradients between Wapienno and Inowrocław.
The 20D is Tabor Dębica’s version of the modernized TEM2 locomotive, meeting Stage V emission standards under EU regulations. Only one has been produced. Tech specs:
- Axles arrangement: Co’Co’;
- Length: 17,125 mm;
- Weight: 118,5 tonnes;
- Fuel tanks capacity: c.a. 6,500 liters;
- Diesel power engine: 1,600 kW;
- Maximum speed: 100 km/h;
We also had the chance to encounter the locomotive in person. The machine, featuring a different green color, was showcased at the Trako trade fair in 2023.
Qemetica introduced its new name and design in 2024 – 20D-001 could not stay behind of course and got new paint accordingly:
Ciech Group changed its name to Qemetica at the beginning of June 2024, as part of a new strategy for 2024-2029. The names of the entities in Spain, Germany, and Romania, where Qemetica has its companies and production facilities, also changed.
Qemetica is a leader in the European chemical market. It is the second-largest producer of soda ash (used in glass production) in Europe and the only producer of this substance in Poland. In 2022, its consolidated revenues amounted to PLN 5.42 billion.
The name change of the group’s chemical companies is another step in the transformation since Kulczyk Investments became a strategic investor (ten years ago). Since then, the Group’s structure has been tidied up, and production and business processes streamlined. Kulczyk took full control of the Group and completed its listing on the Warsaw Stock Exchange in March 2024.
Qemetica Cargo, the Polish rail operator in the group, employs around 280 people and operates 22 locomotives and 1,500 freight wagons. It offers freight transport, wagon leasing, rail siding services, and locomotive and wagon maintenance across Poland.
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