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Cummins KT38-M600 600HP Marine Propulsion Engine | CCEC 448kW Solution
The Cummins KT38-M600 marine propulsion engine is a heavy-duty 600HP (448kW) diesel engine developed under CCEC (Chongqing Cummins), designed for continuous duty operation in demanding marine environments. With a 37.8L V12 configuration, this engine delivers stable and reliable power at both 1500RPM and 1800RPM, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial vessels.
As a professional supplier, HekoPower provides genuine Cummins KT38-M600 engines with complete certification, including IMO Tier II compliance and CCS classification support. We offer full marine propulsion solutions, including gearbox matching, cooling systems, and installation guidance.
Tech Specs of Cummins KT38-M600
General Engine Data
Engine Model: Cummins KT38-M600
Type: 12 Cylinders, V Type, 4 strokes
Displacement: 38 L
Bore * Stroke: 159 * 159
Net Weight (with flywheel & alternator): 4457 Kg
Overall Dimension: 2152mm*1462mm*2083mm
Engine Configuration No.: D232007MX02
Key Performance Data
Rated Power: 448 kW/600HP
Rated Speed: 1800 rpm
Low Idle Speed: 575-675 rpm
High Idle Speed: 1962-2200 rpm
Rating Type: Continuous Running
Fuel Consumption (Running Speed): 116 L/hr
Max Torque/Speed: 2612 N.m @ 1500 rpm
More Technical Data
Certification: CCS/IMO Certificates
Governor Type: Mechanical Control
Aspiration: Turbocharged
Compression Radio: 15.5:1
Fuel System: Cummins Pressure Time (PT Pump)
Starting System: Electrical Start (24V)
Lowest Starting Temp Without auxiliary system: -12℃
Cooling Method: Sea water pump, Heat exchanger, Water cooled
Engineering Excellence: Torque, Fuel, and Cold Start Capability
The CCEC Cummins KT38-M600 marine engine is renowned for its massive 2612 N.m torque @ 1500 rpm, providing the "bollard pull" necessary for harbor tugs and pushers.
PT Fuel System Advantage
Unlike electronic engines, the KT38-M600 utilizes the Cummins PT (Pressure-Time) fuel system. This mechanical control governor setting allows for easier maintenance in remote offshore environments where electronic diagnostic tools are unavailable.
Thermal Efficiency
Under typical working conditions, the Cummins KT38-M600 fuel consumption is approximately 116 L/hr. We provide a full KT38-M600 fuel consumption curve at 1800RPM to help fleet managers calculate precise voyage costs.
Extreme Environments
Our units are specifically configured for a -12℃ start without an auxiliary system, a critical feature for ice-breaking vessels or coastal cargo boats operating in northern latitudes.
Turbocharged Air Intake and Efficient Cooling
The turbocharged system increases air intake efficiency, while the marine-specific cooling system (heat exchanger or keel cooling options) ensures stable operation in both freshwater and seawater environments.
Wet Exhaust System for Marine Application
The KT38-M600 features a wet exhaust system, reducing exhaust temperature and noise while improving safety in confined engine rooms.
Application Guide: Why Choose KT38-M600 for Your Vessel?
Choosing the right rating is vital for vessel longevity. Many clients ask about the difference between KT38-M600 Continuous and Intermittent ratings. While the KT38-M600 is a "Continuous" engine meant for steady propulsion, higher-rated versions (like the KT38-M800) are intended for variable-load applications.
The Cummins KT38-M600 is widely used in:
- Fishing vessels and deep-sea trawlers (20–30 meters)
- Tugboats and pusher boats requiring high torque
- Cargo vessels and river barges
- Offshore support vessels (OSV)
- Passenger ferries and coastal transport ships
- Dredging and pump drive applications
Fishing Trawlers
For 20–30 meter trawlers, the KT38-M600 offers the durability needed for deep-sea dragging.
Tugboat Propulsion Systems
We offer a complete Cummins KT38-M600 gearbox matching guide, ensuring seamless integration with brands like Twin Disc, ZF, or Reintjes.
Cargo & Barges
The Cummins KT38-M600 wet exhaust system reduces engine room temperatures, improving the safety and comfort of river barges and coastal passenger ships.
Comparison Guide: Selecting the Right Marine Rating
Understanding the difference between KT38-M600 and KTA38-G2 ratings is vital to avoid engine failure.
- M-Rating vs. G-Rating: The M600 is designed for variable speed and load (following the propeller curve), whereas G-ratings are for constant speed (generator frequency). Using a G-series engine for propulsion can lead to premature turbocharger failure and excessive smoke. The M600 ensures longevity in marine applications.
- Continuous vs. Intermittent: The M600 is rated for continuous duty, meaning it can run at 100% load indefinitely, unlike intermittent ratings found in recreational marine engines. This makes it perfect for cargo vessel main engines and dredging pump drives.
Gearbox Matching and Propulsion System Integration
The KT38-M600 can be paired with leading marine gearboxes such as:
- Twin Disc
- ZF Marine
- Reintjes
Key considerations:
- Gear ratio selection based on vessel type
- Propeller matching and torque curve alignment
- Shaft system compatibility
- Engine room layout and installation space
HekoPower provides complete propulsion system solutions, including gearbox, shaft, and propeller matching.
Why Choose HekoPower for Cummins Marine Engines
- Genuine CCEC Cummins marine engines
- Competitive factory pricing
- 15–30 days delivery for shipyard schedules
- Global shipping and export documentation
- Support for CCS, DNV, and IMO certifications
- Complete marine propulsion system solutions
We help shipowners and shipyards select the most suitable engine configuration based on vessel type and operational requirements.
Cummins K38-M Series (K38 Marine Engine), marine propulsion engines for commercial and recreational applications, original products from Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant(CCEC). This series mainly includes KT38-M600, KT38-M780, KT38-M800, KT38-M850, KT38-M900, KTA38-M1 (1000 HP), KTA38-M1 (1100 HP), KTA38-M2 (545 HP), KTA38-M2 (1050 HP), KTA38-M2 (1200 HP), KTA38-M2 (1300 HP), KTA38-M2 (1350 HP). All engines complete with sea water pump, heat exchanger, CCS/IMO certificates.
