Dapol has shared a look at the manufacturing work behind its O-gauge containers, as tooling transferred from the Far East begins testing at its UK factory.
In an update dated 20 October, the company reported a run of approximately 200 mouldings using the 20ft container tool. The work uses its largest injection-moulding machine, nicknamed Victor.
The first finished containers were manufactured by Dapol’s overseas partner. The tooling was then brought to Britain, as planned, for future use. The update therefore marks progress in UK production capability rather than the arrival of an entirely British-made first batch.
Dapol explains that each test moulding is removed and inspected by hand. A temporary spacer supports the container as it cools, helping to prevent distortion. Trials with the larger 45ft tooling were due to follow.
For modellers, this is a welcome glimpse beyond the finished box. Even a container needs careful control of cooling and shrinkage to emerge straight and consistent. Victor may lack a decoder and sound project, but there is plenty going on under the bonnet.
Source: Dapol, “From Mould To Model”, 20 October 2026. Catch-up article prepared 30 October 2026.
Ian inspects the first UK-produced container mouldings. Photo: Dapol.
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