The latest addition to the diesel line of West German engine manufacturer Motoren- und Turbinen-Union is a new 16-cylinder engine in the 396 Series, extending the power range of the Series to 2,400 bhp. MTU's 02 version of the 396 Series has found wide acceptance throughout the world, with some 1,600 engines in V6, V8, and V12 models in service up to mid-1980.
Now, based on long operating experience with the 02 version, MTU has introduced the 03 version of the 396 Series, providing a further increase in performance. Major technical modifications contributing to the increased performance are an increased mean effective pressure with a concurrent reduction of the pressure ratio, and introduction of composite pistons, as well as better matched turbocharger and injection systems.
MTU cites intensive turbocharger research, in particular, that allowed a considerable rise in the engine output without increasing specific fuel consumption. Another important feature is the introduction of the cylinder cutout, which minimizes any problems during startup, idling, and part-load service.
The actual cutout is effected with a divided injection control system developed by MTU. To cut off fuel to selected cylinders, an expansion piston is filled with oil and holds one section of the control rack at zero delivery while the other section operates normally.
The long-stroke (185 mm) 16V 396 TC engine has a per cylinder output of 111 hp at 1,650 rpm for commercial vessels, 143 hp at 1,900 rpm for fast vessels, and 150 hp at 2,100 rpm for high-performance craft.
The 396-03 engine series possesses an unusually high degree of power concentration and maximum accessory integration. Its main features include extremely compact construction, favorable power-to-weight ratios, favorable bulk-to-power ratios, and direct flange mounting of driven equipment and driveline components.
The various drive units are arrived at by combining identical prime movers with application-oriented, thoroughly proven accessories. These packages are tested in their ready-to-install condition in the factory test cells under realistic on-site conditions. They can be placed in operation almost immediately on site after the support and power transmission systems have been connected.
Special features of these power packs include functional reliability, easy access to the engine and accessory components, and ease of maintenance, the latter including simple maintenance procedures, low maintenance costs, and simplified spare parts inventories.
MTU's total diesel engine program ranges from 435 to 7,080 bhp, with a choice of rpm from 1,000 to 2,400. Building on the experience gained with the 956 counterpart, MTU developed the 1163 family, which is aimed especially at 60 Hz power generation and marine applications. Owing to the extended length of the stroke, the power offered by the 1163 model at 1,200 rpm is the same as that of the 956 engine at 1,500 rpm, with the per-cylinder as high as 354 hp.