Details
Cummins KT38-DM679 Marine Auxiliary Diesel Engine
The Cummins KT38-DM679 is a heavy-duty, 38-liter marine auxiliary diesel engine engineered for continuous, demanding maritime applications. Manufactured by the Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant (CCEC), this 12-cylinder V-type marine diesel engine delivers a steady 679 kW (910 HP) at 1800 RPM.
Unlike lighter commercial engines, the KT38-DM series is built with a cast-iron block and forged steel crankshaft, designed specifically to handle the structural stress and thermal loads required for onboard power generation. As a leading Cummins KT38-DM679 engine supplier in China, HekoPower provides genuine CCEC marine repower solutions and complete auxiliary setups for commercial vessels worldwide.
Tech Specs of Cummins KT38-DM679
General Engine Data
Engine Model: Cummins KT38-DM679
Type: 12 Cylinders, V Type, 4 Stroke, Diesel
Displacement: 38 L
Bore * Stroke: 159 * 159
Net Weight (with flywheel & alternator): 3923 Kg
Overall Dimension: 2003mm*1362mm*1661mm
Engine Configuration No.: D232018DX02
Key Performance Data
Rated Power/Standby Power: 679 kW/910HP, 746 kW/1000HP
Rated Speed: 1800 rpm
Low Idle Speed: 575-650 rpm
Fuel Consumption (Running Speed): 232 g/kW.hr
Torque/Rated Speed: 3602 N.m @ 1500 rpm
More Technical Data
Certification: CCS/IMO Certificates
Aspiration: Turbocharged
Compression Radio: 15.5:1
Fuel System: Cummins Pressure Time (PT Pump)
Starting System: Electrical starting motor (24V)
Cooling Method: Water cooling
Cooling Method: Sea water pump, Heat exchanger, Wet exhaust manifold
Technical Comparisons: KT38-DM vs. Older Legacy Engines
Procurement managers often ask why they should specify the Cummins 38L marine diesel engine over re-sleeving older, existing generator blocks.
The primary advantage lies in the power-to-weight ratio and emissions compliance. The 679 kW / 910 HP Cummins KT38-DM marine generator engine offers significant advancements in combustion efficiency. Older, naturally aspirated V12s require substantially larger displacements to achieve the same 679kW output, consuming valuable engine room space and drastically increasing vessel deadweight.
Furthermore, parts availability is a major factor. Sourcing components for a genuine Chongqing Cummins (CCEC) KT38-DM679 engine is streamlined globally. In contrast, older legacy blocks often suffer from long lead times for cast parts, leading to unacceptable vessel downtime.
Common Misconceptions Regarding the KT38-DM Series
A frequent misunderstanding we encounter at HekoPower is the assumption that high-horsepower auxiliary engines require complex, electronically governed common-rail fuel systems.
While common-rail systems are excellent for emissions-controlled propulsion, the Cummins KT38-DM679 PT fuel system engine remains strictly mechanical. This is a deliberate engineering choice for marine auxiliary power. Mechanical PT (Pressure-Time) pumps are significantly easier to field-service while at sea. They do not require diagnostic laptops or specialized software to troubleshoot. If a vessel takes on contaminated bunker fuel in a remote port, a mechanical system allows the ship's engineer to clean the system and restore auxiliary power much faster than an electronic system.
Commercial Application Scenarios
The Cummins KT38-DM679 commercial vessel engine is rarely used for direct propulsion. Instead, its torque curve is optimized to spin heavy alternators at constant speeds.
Fishing Vessels and Factory Ships
A reliable Cummins KT38-DM679 engine for fishing boat applications is essential for operating high-draw processing equipment. Factory trawlers rely on these engines to power blast freezers, conveyor systems, and hydraulic winches. The continuous 1800 RPM output ensures stable voltage across the vessel, preventing damage to sensitive navigational and refrigeration controls.
Tug Boats and Barges
When outfitting a Cummins KT38-DM679 engine for tug boat operations, operators value its rapid load acceptance. When a tug engages a heavy tow, the auxiliary electrical load can spike instantly due to the activation of heavy deck winches and bow thrusters. The KT38-DM679 handles these sudden step-loads without severe RPM droop, preventing onboard blackouts.
Maintenance and Marine Repower Solutions
Implementing a Cummins KT38-DM679 replacement engine requires careful planning. Whether you are building a new hull or undertaking a complete mid-life vessel overhaul, HekoPower provides comprehensive support.
Routine maintenance is straightforward due to the modular design of the cylinder heads. Each cylinder features its own individual head. This means that if a single valve drops or a gasket fails, the ship's crew can replace one individual head without needing to remove a massive, multi-cylinder casting. This drastically reduces maintenance hours and heavy lifting requirements within confined engine rooms.
We strongly advise adhering to the CCEC maintenance intervals for the sea water pump impeller and heat exchanger zinc anodes. The majority of premature marine engine failures are not due to internal combustion issues, but rather marine growth or galvanic corrosion within the cooling circuit.
Cummins K38-DM Series, Marine Auxilliary Diesel Engines for commercial and recreational applications, original products from Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant(CCEC). This series mainly includes KT38-DM560, KT38-DM679, KTA38-DM664, KTA38-DM768, KTA38-DM809, KTA38-DM814, KTA38-DM880, KTA38-DM1007. All engines complete with sea water pump, heat exchanger, CCS/IMO certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications does this engine carry?
We supply the Cummins marine engine with CCS/IMO certificates upon request, ensuring compliance with international maritime classifications for safety and emissions.
How do I purchase a Cummins KT38-DM679 marine engine from HekoPower?
As a genuine Cummins KT38-DM679 exporter, we handle the entire process. Clients looking to buy Cummins KT38-DM679 marine engine units can contact our sales team with their specific alternator pairing requirements. We manage the factory ordering, testing, and international crating.
Is the Cummins KT38-DM679 engine price negotiable for fleet buyers?
Yes. When clients look for a wholesale Cummins KT38-DM679 engine supplier for multi-vessel fleet upgrades, we offer tiered pricing structures. Contact us directly to discuss your fleet repower schedule.
Does this engine function as a ship propulsion engine?
While the KT38 block is used in propulsion applications, the specific DM679 designation is tuned for auxiliary (generator) use at fixed speeds. If you require a Cummins KT38-DM679 ship propulsion engine setup, we will direct you to the structurally similar KT38-M propulsion variants which feature a variable speed governor.
