Local GEC ZD4655/Cs (aka WRTL HML400s)

ZD4655/Cs are used on the high masts in Derby's City Centre. The lanterns are believed to have replaced older, less efficient lanterns in the 1970s or 80s.

There are four lanterns mounted to each mast - maintenance is carried out at ground level thanks to a winch mechanism located in the base. In 2003, the mechanism on one mast jammed whilst the gantry was at ground level, and so the lanterns were temporarily removed until it could be repaired. Unfortunately, the problem was with the pulley at the top of the mast and so an extra-high cherry picker was required for the engineer carrying out the repair. The white rings painted on the joins along the mast is anti-rust spray - the masts are getting on in years and so they need a bit of TLC to keep them in a safe condition!

© 2002-2008 Mike Barford