Rail supplier news from Siemens, Goldschmidt Thermit, L.B. Foster, Michael Baker and Retlif (Aug. 10)

Siemens' new diesel-electric Charger locomotives are progressing through a "rigorous" testing program at the Transportation Technology Center Inc. in Pueblo, Colo., the company announced today. To ensure the units are operating as designed and that they're ready for passenger-service, a variety of tests and validation exercises will be performed, including maximum speed runs, acceleration, braking and overall performance. Designed to operate at speeds up to 125 mph, the Charger locomotive features a high-performance, 4,400-horsepower-rated Cummins QSK95 diesel engine. The unit is the first high-speed passenger locomotive to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Tier 4 emission standard, Siemens officials said.

Goldschmidt Thermit Group, a German continuous joint welding and rail maintenance company, has acquired SRS Sjolanders AB of Osby, Sweden. The acquired company specializes in manufacturing road-rail vehicles for the installation, inspection and maintenance of overhead lines and the inspection of bridges and tunnels. The acquisition is an "important strategic addition" for Goldschmidt Thermit's product range, company officials said in a press release.

L.B. Foster Co. has appointed Alexandre Kosmala senior vice president responsible for the tubular and energy services segment and the construction segment. He joins the company after serving as executive VP at Saltel Industries, a provider of drilling and well construction products and well maintenance solutions. Before that, Kosmala was president and chief executive officer of Artificial Lift Co.

Michael Baker International named Jeffrey Predmore director of security. He will oversee the company-wide corporate security compliance program and maintain a review of all incoming and existing personnel. Predmore has more than 30 years of security management experience and has worked in the private sector and U.S. Army.

Retlif Testing Laboratories has promoted Richard Reitz to director of engineering. He will oversee Retlif's testing and staff engineers at all company testing facilities. Reitz has been with the company since 1985.