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Tuesday, April 23, 2024

New Cat C30 Cranks Out More Power

Maritime Activity Reports, Inc.

September 6, 2002

Caterpillar’s newC30 marine diesel engine is available for worldwide distribution. The electronically controlled C30 is in the same size class as the popular Cat 3412E, but adds 150 mhp (148 bhp) --- an 11 percent increase. The C30’s top rating of 1570 mhp (1550 bhp) at 2300 rpm provides a significant performance boost for 50+ ft (15+ m) yachts. The C30 was designed for high performance; it accelerates rapidly, cruises smoothly and has exceptional reserve power for challenging sea conditions. Twin Cat C30s have powered a new Spencer Yachts 57-foot sportfisher over 9,000 miles in the past 3 months, reaching a top speed of 44 knots. “Speed is a big deal in tournament fishing,” says Paul Spencer, president of Spencer Yachts. “The C30s definitely have more power than the 3412E, and they’re more responsive. There’s very little smoke, they idle smoothly and we get excellent fuel economy cruising at 30 knots, giving us a range of 600 miles.” Much of the C30’s performance can be attributed to its proven electronic control and fuel systems. The ADEM™ II Electronic Control Module (ECM) works together with Caterpillar’s patented HEUI™ fuel system to maximize power and torque while offering excellent fuel economy and meeting all known current and future emissions regulations. In addition to providing high-performance engine control, the ADEM II ECM can synchronize up to three engines and offers customer-specified parameters such as programmable idle speed, trolling mode and slow vessel mode for docking. The ECM also communicates with Caterpillar’s four optional monitoring systems—including the popular Marine Power Display and full color Engine Vision—to enhance pilothouse monitoring and engine diagnostic capabilities. Mechanical improvements contribute to the C30’s superior performance. A new seawater aftercooler significantly reduces combustion air temperature to increase power and reduce emissions. New piston ring and liner designs have eliminated blow-by gases by 50 percent, and a redesigned fumes recirculation system separates oil out of blow-by more efficiently to keep the turbocharger compressor blades and aftercooler much cleaner. The new turbos, sized to match the added power output of the engine, are equipped with noise baffles that eliminate turbo whine. The C30 is equipped with an integral titanium plateheat exchanger that reduces engine size, improves reliability and simplifies maintenance. The cooling system deaerators, jacket water crossover pipe, shunt line and expansion tank are all incorporated into the new, compact heat exchanger design. There are fewer gasket joints to maintain, and the entire unit removes easily when service is needed. Engine appearance is enhanced by a new, high-quality polyurethane paint, and custom colors and polished castings are available as options. Other engine options include a transmission oil cooler and a fuel cooler that can be integrated into the heat exchanger design. The C30 offers pleasure craft owners powerful performance from a proven product design with full support—including 24-hour technical support, expert service and fast worldwide parts availability from Caterpillar’s extensive service organization of 1,200 dealer locations worldwide. In non-revenue producing pleasure craft applications, Caterpillar® marine products are covered by a two-year warranty, with an extended five-year warranty on major components.

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