COMMERCIAL WORKBOATS BENEFIT FROM ALL-NEW QUANTUM SERIES ENGINE

Improved fuel economy, less noise and better power-to-weight ratio, are a few of the major advances in the fully electronic, low emissions Quantum Series of engines announced today by Cummins MerCruiser Diesel (CMD). The first in this series, is the all-new, 5.9 litre QSB5.9 diesel, with ratings of 355HP (Intermittent) at 2,800 rpm, 305HP (Medium Continuous) at 2,600 rpm and 230HP (Heavy Duty) at 2600 rpm.

New technology being used for the development of the CMD Quantum Series makes the QSB5.9, fully compliant with the new stringent EPA Tier 2 emissions regulations for commercial diesel engines that take effect January 2004. Quantum engines also comply with the exhaust emission requirements as set forth by future European directives.

Central to the QSB5.9 new design is the high-pressure common rail fuel system, which improves economy. This new system allows engines to be less sensitive to fuel temperatures that hamper commercial applications where cold mornings migrate into mild or warm afternoons. From a sociability standpoint the new engine is cleaner starting, virtually eliminates smoke and odor, lowers emissions levels and reduces noise by 80% at idle.

The new engine block is scalloped on the sides and uses a skirt stiffening plate between the oil pan and engine block. These new features stiffen the block, increasing its strength, further reducing noise as well as providing more power. Engineers found by vertically mounting fuel injectors centered over the combustion chamber the engine achieved cleaner, more efficient combustion and better durability. Those considering the QSB5.9 for repowering will find an easy fit with the front supports matching the range available on the Cummins B-series.

Peak torque improvement on the QSB5.9 is increased nearly 20% without wastegating – occurring 200 rpm lower than on the previous standards set by Cummins 370B. Quicker acceleration is noted from the combination of a perfectly matched turbocharger and a new 24-valve cylinder head. The raised turbocharger location reduces connection complexity as well.

Maintenance costs are predictably better through elimination of air heaters thanks to a change in timing control. Exhaust connections are simplified on the QSB5.9 that is fitted with the proven Cummins 370B aftercooler, heat exchanger, fuel cooler and transmission cooler. The engine also includes a new-design water-cooled exhaust manifold and turbine housing. Access to key components like fuel and lube filters is improved along with raising the seawater inlet connection allowing easier access for service technicians.

Monitoring of engines is more intense and proactive than ever possible before through the use of SmartCraft’s datalink between the engine and vessel sensors and helm. Fewer wires promotes ease of installation and increases reliability of the electrical system. SmartCraft constantly monitors engine performance, providing instant diagnostics and operations data at the helm. Better sensors provide operators with critical information that can be used in taking steps to mitigate damage to other engine components.

The QSB5.9 platform was originally designed for higher cylinder pressures, required by the US automotive market. Cummins Inc is well respected as a technical leader with regards to diesel emissions and technology advancements. The benefits from this extensive design work are clean running, quiet diesel engines with increased power density capability.

High resolution images: http://www.cmdmarine.com/ftp10.

Editorial notes:

Mercury Marine is a division of the Brunswick Corporation, headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois (USA). Brunswick Corporation is a manufacturer and marketer of leading consumer brands in the marine engine and boating markets as well as the recreational fitness, bowling and billiard markets. Mercury Marine’s home page can be found at www.mercurymarine.com

A global power leader, Cummins Inc is a corporation of complementary business units that design, manufacture, distribute and service electrical power generation systems, engines, and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration and emissions solutions. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (USA), Cummins serves its customers through more than 500 company-owned and independent distributor locations in 131 countries and territories. The Cummins home web page is www.cummins.com.

For more information, contact Ted Varner, CMD Communications Manager at 843-745-1586 or ted.varner@cmdmarine.com.