A review by S. G. Illangasekara (Grade 11E) The Railway Workshops Complex at Ratmalana stands as an engineering marvel in the Sri Lankan railway sector, showcasing both primeval machine technology and architecture. These workshops play a vital role in the smooth operation of Sri Lanka Railways, being responsible for repairing, rescheduling, and maintaining locomotives, coaches, and rolling stock, encompassing all aspects such as mechanical and electrical components. A Learning Expedition: Annual Student Visit On the 7th of May, 2024, 18 students studying Design Mechanical Technology and Engineering Technology embarked on their annual visit to the workshops. Guided by Mr. Subash Dhanasekara, Mr. Subash Wijewardana, Mr. Wasana Dissanayaka, and Mr. Mahesh Udurawana, the students eagerly anticipated this rare opportunity to witness the engineering and technology behind the railway and its locomotives. Exploring the Workshops Diesel Multiple Units and Shunting Engines The first stop was Workshops 27/28, housing the Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) and Y class shunting engines. Here, students learned about the technical aspects of the DMUs, how the engines are powered, and were allowed to observe the interiors of these complex vehicles. Maintenance of Auxiliary Systems Next, the students visited Workshop 35, the maintenance hub for auxiliary generators and motors. These generators provide electricity to auxiliary systems such as lights, air compressors, and air conditioning in locomotives. The students were educated on this sophisticated system and the concept of dynamic braking, a process of decelerating a train on a downgrade using traction motors as generators. Traction Motors and Generators The field visit continued with Workshop 39, where traction motors and generators, crucial components in a locomotive, are maintained. Traction motors convert electrical energy to mechanical energy, spinning the wheels of the locomotive. Diesel-Electric Locomotives In Workshop 16, the students observed the 4-stroke diesel-electric locomotives undergoing repair and overhaul. They learned about the technical aspects of Class M4, M5, M8, and M10 locomotives and got the unique opportunity to explore the driving cabins of these fascinating machines. Two-Stroke Diesel-Electric Locomotives The highlights continued with Workshop 14, responsible for repairing and overhauling the 2-stroke diesel-electric locomotives. Students observed the prime movers and cabins of notable locomotives such as Class M2, M6, and M7, and the newest locomotive in service, Class M11. Casting and Manufacturing: Foundry and Machine Shop The Foundry After examining the major workshops, the students were guided to the Foundry. Here, iron is melted in large furnaces and poured into molds to cast parts required for locomotives. Experienced supervisors and staff educated the students on the casting process, including aluminum and steel casting. The Machine Shop The visit continued to the Machine Shop, where parts such as locomotive couplers, bolts, and nails are shaped and manufactured. The Workshop Foreman demonstrated the locomotive coupling system and explained the ancient yet efficient machines used to manufacture these components. The Traverser: An Engineering Sensation The students concluded their visit with a stop at the Traverser, an engineering marvel capable of relocating carriages from shop to shop by horizontally moving them along a set of three parallel broad-gauge tracks. The field visit ended with a group photo on the traverser, marking a successful and enlightening experience. Conclusion: A Glimpse into Railway Engineering The annual field visit to the Ratmalana Railway Workshops provided the students of Trinity College with invaluable insights into the technology and craftsmanship prevalent within Sri Lanka Railways. This educational odyssey not only enriched their knowledge but also inspired a deeper appreciation for the engineering feats behind railway operations.

Reviewed by – S.Dilrukshan  AUDAX VII, hosted by the Astronomical Society of Maliyadeva College Kurunegala, was an enjoyable platform on which TCK’s young astronomers showcased their skills in various competitions.   Quiz Team Success  Trinity College’s Astronomical quiz team demonstrated exceptional knowledge and strategic thinking, when they secured a commendable 3rd place among numerous schools.  Nalanda College Colombo attained 1st place and Dharmaraja College Kandy was placed 2nd in the quiz competition.  Team TCK showcased their expertise in astronomy, quick reflexes, and cosmic awareness.  The quiz team members were tasked with individual quiz papers, through which each participant’s proficiency contributed to Trinity College’s outstanding performance. Their remarkable achievement propelled Trinity College to the forefront of the competition.   Quiz Team:  1. P. Thalagahawatte – Astrophysics   2. T. Humrushan – Rocketry   3. D.C.D. Jayasinghe – General Astronomy  4. T.R. Dayarathne – Observation Astronomy  5. S. Dilrukshan – Cosmology   Dynamic Contribution of the Members of the Workshop  Simultaneously, Trinity College’s workshop team, with five enthusiastic members demonstrated practical skills and a passion for astronomy. Engaging in hands-on activities, this versatile team added a creative and experimental dimension to AUDAX VII, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.  Workshop Team Members were:  1. R.A.N.N.I Ranathunga  2. M. Hamzah  3. T. Kabishith  4. G. Kriteeshkar  5. S. Tennekoon  The 10-member Trinity contingent enriched the overall experience, bringing forth a holistic approach to astronomical education. In both the cerebral challenges of the quiz and the practical aspects of the workshop, Trinity College demonstrated its dedication.  The team convey their heartfelt gratitude towards their teacher Mr.Hasitha Nissankarchchi and parent Mr. Prabath Dayaratne for their invaluable support during AUDAX VII in accompanying them to the venue. Their invaluable support was the key to the teams’ success.  TCK applauds the collective effort, of all the members of the Astronomical Society, and eagerly anticipate their continued excellence in future astronomical endeavors. 

by M.H. Hamzah  After an epic journey, exploring the vast mysteries of the cosmos, the junior team of the Astronomical Society of Trinity College was able to secure the runners-up position in Star Party ’24, South Asia’s first and largest annual night sky observation competition and Astronomical workshop presented by the Anandian Astronomical Association in collaboration with the Astronomical Society of Mahamaya Girls’ College, Kandy.   The first rustle of the star party began a week before the actual night, as the team attentively listened to the online lectures in order to compete in the Quiz.   After 5 continuous days of lectures and assessments, the Juniors secured the 1st place in the online assessment, which was the first phase of the Star Party 24.  The most exciting night everyone awaited finally arrived, on the 2nd of February at 4.00 PM, when the team gathered at the Geography Block of the University of Peradeniya. The team composition was as follows:  TCK’s young astronomers were fortunate to have a crystal-clear sky that welcomed them with its dazzling stars. The jaw-dropping view of Jupiter through the telescope was incomparable. The spark of Jupiter’s moons, Europa, followed by the grey rocky Ganymede, and then Calisto,  added beauty to the view.  The knowledge gained by the team all these days in different fields of astronomy was put to the test by a spot test, viva round and MCQ.  Trinity College emerged runners-up, after Seevali College Ratnapura.  At dawn after the team had gathered at the university ground to witness the launching of water rockets, the results were announced with Trinity College’s emerging runners-up, after Seevali College, Ratnapura.  The young astrophiles having filled their minds with the wonders hidden in the sky returned with an incredible achievement. The Astronomical Society of Trinity College is proud of their juniors and wishes them all the best in future endeavors.  A special note of thanks goes to Dr Viduranga Waisundara, who accompanied the students throughout the night during the competition.