US-based engine manufacturer Cummins’ high-horsepower diesel engine, the QSK95 Tier 3, will be launched in South Africa in either late 2016, or early 2017.

Cummins South Africa, represented through a local head office in Woodmead, in Johannesburg, has several service centres in the country that include a high-horsepower rebuild centre in Johannesburg, which is tasked with maintaining engines such as the QSK95.

Although the Tier 4 variant of Cummins’ QSK95 was launched in mid-2015, in the US, the Tier 3 variant is destined for deliveries to potential locomotive clients in South Africa, who are currently allowed to place orders for the new engine.

The Tier 3 variant produces a maximum of 3 600 hp, which is rated at an engine speed of 1 800 rpm. This power stems from the significant size of its diesel engine that features V16 cylinder configuration, the latest-generation modular common-rail fuel injection, 95 ℓ displacement and single-stage quad turbochargers.

A two-stage after-cooling radiator reduces the radiator size of a conventional single-stage radiator, thereby also reducing overall engine package requirements.

All these features assist the QSK95 in having a smaller footprint and less noise, compared with medium-speed diesel engines, which are traditionally used in locomotives.

Further, on the latest Tier 4 variant of the QSK95, an integrated selective catalytic reduction exhaust after-treatment system enables the engine to achieve the ultralow emissions stipulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Tier 4 emissions requirements.

Several factors ensure engine reliability. These include a midstop engine liner, which provides engine coolant at high locations on the engine block, thereby keeping the engine cooler during combustion processes; enhanced bore and stroke dimensions, which result in lower piston speeds; and less heat that results in extended engine life spans.

A central overhead camshaft reduces the number of parts required, while a prelubrication pump enhances durability by ensuring adequate lubrication during the starting of the engine. The engine block also features a bedplate to add robustness, and a deep skirt for improved serviceability.

Cummins US says the company’s strong presence in mining and marine markets in Africa is supported by an extensive service network that ensures that Cummins can support the South African rail industry.