Details
Cummins KTA50-M2 1700HP Marine Propulsion Diesel Engine
The Cummins KTA50-M2 1700HP represents the industry standard for heavy-duty marine propulsion, offering an optimal balance of sheer towing power, mechanical simplicity, and continuous-duty reliability. Manufactured by the Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant (CCEC), this V-16 cylinder marine engine is specifically engineered for commercial vessels that require 1268 kW of continuous or heavy-duty power at 1800 RPM.
As a genuine CCEC Cummins KTA50-M2 supplier, HekoPower provides complete engine assemblies, ensuring each unit meets rigorous CCS and IMO Tier II marine certifications. Whether you are outfitting a new build or looking for a reliable KTA50-M2-1700 vessel repower engine, this 50-liter diesel engine delivers the peak torque and operational durability required for the harshest maritime environments.
Tech Specs of Cummins KTA50-M2 1700HP
General Engine Data
Engine Model: Cummins KTA50-M2 (1700 HP)
Type: 16 Cylinders, V Type, 4 strokes, Diesel
Displacement: 50 L
Bore * Stroke: 159 * 159
Net Weight (with flywheel & alternator): 5742 Kg
Overall Dimension: 2694mm*1564mm*2260mm
Engine Configuration No.: D283033MX02
Key Performance Data
Rated Power: 1268 kW/1700HP
Rated Speed: 1800 rpm
Low Idle Speed: 650±25 rpm
High Idle Speed: 1860-2016 rpm
Rating Type: Heavy Duty
Fuel Consumption (Running Speed): 309.9 L/hr
Rated Engine Torque: 6725 N.m @ 1800 rpm
Torque/Rated Speed: 7020 N.m @ 1500 rpm
More Technical Data
Certification: CCS/IMO2 Certificates
Governor Type: Mechanical Control
Aspiration: Turbocharged/Jacket water Aftercooled
Compression Radio: 13.9:1
Fuel System: Cummins Pressure Time (PT Pump)
Starting System: Electrical Start (24V)
Lowest Starting Temp Without auxiliary system: -12℃
Firing Order: 1R-1L-3R-3L-2R-2L-5R-4L-8R-8L-6R-6L-7R-7L-4R-5L
Cooling Method: Sea water pump, Heat exchanger, Water cooled
Real Application Scenarios for the 1700 HP Cummins Marine Engine
The KTA50-M2-1700 commercial marine engine is not designed for lightweight recreational use; it is a heavy-duty workhorse built to turn large propellers under high-drag conditions.
In the offshore sector, this 1700 HP Cummins marine engine is a primary choice for harbor tugboats and pusher craft. Tug operators rely heavily on the KTA50-M2-1700 rated torque, as the engine reaches a massive peak torque of 7020 N.m at just 1500 RPM. This low-end rotational force is what translates directly into bollard pull, allowing tugs to maneuver massive container ships safely.
For inland cargo ships and coastal freighters, the continuous-duty rating of the 1268 kW marine diesel engine allows vessels to operate 24 hours a day without thermal fatigue. Additionally, because the engine is supplied as a KTA50-M2 with sea water pump and heat exchanger configurations, it can easily adapt to both keel-cooled shallow-draft vessels and traditional open-loop cooling systems.
Decoding the Cummins KTA50-M2-1700 PT Fuel System
A common misconception among vessel owners is that modern electronic common-rail fuel systems are universally superior to mechanical variants. While electronic injection offers marginal efficiency gains on passenger vessels, commercial marine operators specifically seek out the KTA50-M2-1700 PT fuel system.
The Cummins PT (Pressure-Time) system operates using a purely mechanical governor. In the event of an electrical failure or a lightning strike at sea, a vessel powered by the KTA50-M2-1700 mechanical governor will continue to run and maintain propulsion. There are no complex Engine Control Modules (ECMs) to fry, nor do you need specialized diagnostic laptops to troubleshoot fuel delivery in remote ports. This mechanical resilience is a primary reason why original CCEC KTA50-M2-1700 marine engine models retain such high resale value in the global fleet.
Technical Comparison: KTA50-M2 vs. KTA38 Series
When planning a new build, engineers often debate between installing a larger KTA38 configuration or moving up to the KTA50-M2. While both share the rugged 159 x 159 mm bore stroke design, the KTA50-M2-1700 16 cylinder marine engine adds four additional cylinders, pushing displacement from 38 liters to 50 liters.
This added volume makes the KTA50 significantly better suited for heavy-duty towing. A highly tuned KTA38 forced to output 1400HP will experience higher internal cylinder pressures and faster wear on the piston rings. Conversely, the KTA50-M2-1700 operates at a much lower thermal stress level to produce 1700 HP, resulting in a cooler running block, extended time between overhauls (TBO), and superior longevity.
Maintenance and Replacement Engine Guidelines
Maintaining this heavy-duty marine propulsion diesel engine 1700HP requires strict adherence to oil sampling and cooling system checks. The most critical maintenance advice for the KTA50-M2 involves managing the Low Temperature Aftercooler (LTA) circuit. Operators must ensure marine growth does not restrict sea water flow through the heat exchanger, as elevated intake manifold temperatures will sharply reduce the engine's power output and increase exhaust gas temperatures.
If you are sourcing a KTA50-M2-1700 replacement engine for an aging vessel, matching the flywheel housing and engine mounts to your existing marine transmission is essential. As a direct KTA50-M2-1700 marine engine supplier in China, HekoPower coordinates with naval architects to ensure the new engine aligns perfectly with existing drivelines, minimizing shipyard downtime during repower projects. We also supply a comprehensive inventory of Cummins KTA50 marine engine replacement parts to support the engine throughout its lifecycle.
Cummins K50-M Series (K50 Marine Engine), marine propulsion engines for commercial and recreational applications, original products from Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant(CCEC). This series mainly includes KTA50-M2 (1600 HP), KTA50-M2 (1700 HP), KTA50-M2 (1800 HP). All engines complete with sea water pump, heat exchanger, CCS/IMO certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What emission standards does the KTA50-M2-1700 meet?
This specific engine model is a Cummins KTA50-M2-1700 IMO Tier II certified unit. Depending on the exact build specification and your operational region, we can supply units with full CCS marine engine certification, ensuring compliance with international maritime environmental regulations.
What is the difference between continuous duty and heavy duty ratings?
The 1700 HP output on the KTA50-M2 is classified as a Heavy Duty rating. This means the engine can operate at full power for up to 8 hours out of every 12-hour period. If your vessel requires 100% load continuously without interruption (24/7), the engine must be calibrated to its Continuous Duty rating, which generally caps output closer to 1600 HP to guarantee thermal stability over endless operating hours.
Can I purchase this engine directly for wholesale or export?
Yes. HekoPower operates as an original Cummins KTA50-M2 1700HP wholesale distributor. We handle complete engine assemblies, testing, secure marine-grade packaging, and export logistics. If you require a formal quote on the KTA50-M2-1700 price or lead times, contact our sales engineering team.
