Propulsion Updates:Cummins Introduces the QSK60

Cummins literally unveiled its QSK60 powerplant to the marine market at the Workboat Show in New Orleans, ushering in a new, more powerful age for the surging diesel engine manufacturer. "This engine will take Cummins into new markets," said Geoff Conrad, general manager, Cummins Marine. "But it is meant for the Workboat market … it's meant to last a very long time."

The new engine (new for the marine market, that is) has a power range of 2,000 to 2,300 hp (1,492 to 1,716 kW for propulsion and 1,500 to 1,825 kW for auxiliary applications, and is now the most powerful in the Cummins line-up. "The QSK60 provides operators a new choice as well as a cost effective alternative to medium speed," Conrad said. "Additionally, the engine has an established track record in demanding mining, excavator and electrical power applications, with thousands of units in service."

The QSK60 is manufactured at the Daventry Engine Plant in the U.K., the same facility that builds the K38 and K50 engines. To date, the facility has manufactured more than 2,000 QSK engines for both industrial and land-based power generation operations.

The Engine

The QSK60 is emissions compliant to IMO Annex VI of MARPOL 73/78 and certified by the EPA, Lloyd's Register and CCNR. Cummins expects the QSK60 to receive certificates from ABS, DNV, LR, BV, and GL in time for the first full production engines to ship in June 2003. The robust engine block is designed for continuous duty operation and long life. Metric O-ring seals and edge molded gaskets eliminate fluid leaks. Full power take-off available from front of crankshaft. Ductile single-piece piston design with hardened liners and nitride coated rings for durability. The engine can be cooled either via a keel cooler or via engine mounted plate-type heat exchanger. The fuel system is full authority Quantum electronic for optimized combustion and enhanced fuel economy. In the lubrication system, the Cummins Eliminator — which replaces disposable filters and helps extend oil drain intervals) and Centinel Oil Management System are designed to provide extended service intervals and less maintenance.