Details
Cummins NTA855-DM287 Marine Auxiliary Engine (287kW / 385HP)
Welcome to HekoPower, your trusted exporter and distributor for genuine marine power solutions. Finding a reliable Cummins NTA855-DM287 for sale can be challenging amidst a sea of trading companies that simply copy factory catalogs. As a dedicated NTA855-DM287 marine engine supplier, HekoPower provides the exact technical context marine engineers require.
The Cummins NTA855-DM287 marine auxiliary engine is engineered specifically for heavy-duty shipboard power generation. Built by the Chongqing Cummins Engine Company (CCEC), this 14-liter diesel engine provides a highly reliable continuous output of 287 kW (385 HP) at a governed 1800 RPM. The NTA855-DM287 stands out in the Cummins N855-DM series due to its robust inline 6-cylinder marine engine architecture. It is purpose-built to drive 60Hz marine generator sets to power essential vessel systems. Whether you need a Cummins NTA855-DM287 replacement engine for a dry-docked ship or a new unit for a commercial vessel build, this model combines mechanical reliability with strict compliance to IMO Tier II emission standards.
Tech Specs of Cummins NTA855-DM287
General Engine Data
Engine Model: Cummins NTA855-DM287
Type: 6 Cylinders in Line
Displacement: 14 L
Bore * Stroke: 140 * 152
Net Weight (with flywheel & alternator): 1385 Kg
Overall Dimension: 1453mm*947mm*1296mm
Engine Configuration No.: D093641MX02
Key Performance Data
Rated Power/Standby Power: 287 kW/385HP, 317 kW/425HP
Rated Speed: 1800 rpm
Low Idle Speed: 575-650 rpm
Fuel Consumption (Running Speed): ≤ 233 g/kW.hr
Torque/Rated Speed: 1682 N.m @ 1500 rpm
More Technical Data
Certification: CCS/IMO Certificates
Aspiration: Turbocharged/Aftercooled
Compression Radio: 14.5:1
Fuel System: Cummins Pressure Time (PT Pump)
Starting System: Electrical starting motor (12V/24V)
Lowest Starting Temp Without auxiliary system: -12℃
Engine Cooling System: Sea water pump, Heat exchanger, Wet exhaust manifold
Cooling Method: Water cooling
Real Application Scenarios
Choosing the right auxiliary engine requires matching the continuous duty ship auxiliary power to the vessel's electrical load. The NTA855-DM287 shines in environments demanding uninterrupted, heavy-duty operation.
Cargo Vessel and Commercial Ship Auxiliary Power
For mid-sized cargo vessels and bulk carriers, electrical demand remains high both underway and in port. This Cummins auxiliary engine for cargo vessel applications easily handles the load of refrigeration units, heavy deck cranes, and onboard lighting systems. Providing a steady 287kW marine auxiliary engine output, it runs 60Hz generator ends seamlessly. The NTA855-DM287 torque peaks reliably at 1682 N.m, ensuring that sudden load spikes from deck machinery do not cause frequency drops or brownouts in the ship's grid.
Tugboat Emergency Power and Fishing Fleets
Tugboats and offshore support ships require fail-safe systems. The 287 kW marine generator engine for tugboat emergency power is a proven choice in the maritime industry. HekoPower routinely supplies this model configured with a twin starter motor dual electric spring system. This mechanical redundancy ensures the engine will turn over and start even during a total vessel blackout. Similarly, as a Cummins auxiliary engine for fishing vessel use, the mechanical simplicity of the fuel system tolerates the harsh, salt-laden environments that often cripple modern electronic injection setups.
Technical Comparisons within the NTA855-DM Series
To avoid confusion among the Cummins NTA855-DM series, it is crucial to understand why the DM287 is selected over neighboring models like the DM240 or DM313.
1800 RPM vs 1500 RPM Configurations
The NTA855-DM287 is purpose-built as an 1800 RPM Cummins marine engine. This engine speed is strictly calibrated for 60Hz marine alternators. In contrast, models like the DM240 or DM284 are governed at 1500 RPM for 50Hz applications. Running an 1800 RPM engine continuously at 1500 RPM to meet 50Hz requirements causes low cylinder temperatures, wet stacking, and terrible fuel efficiency. Buyers must select the engine speed that natively matches their onboard electrical grid.
Cooling Systems: Heat Exchanger vs Radiator Cooling
Marine environments dictate specific cooling methods. The Cummins NTA855-DM287 heat exchanger vs radiator cooling debate is a common discussion among shipbuilders. For main shipboard generator sets located below deck, standard sea-water heat exchanger cooling is mandatory. The NTA855-DM287 jacket water aftercooled JWAC specs ensure that raw sea water cools the closed-loop freshwater system efficiently, rejecting heat straight overboard. Radiator cooling is generally reserved for emergency generator sets located on the upper weather decks where ambient air cooling is feasible and sea-water plumbing is impractical.
Mechanical Turbos and Fuel Delivery
This model is a strictly turbocharged aftercooled engine. It utilizes the legendary Cummins PT fuel system, driven by a direct injection CMI PT mechanical pump. Compared to modern high-pressure common-rail engines, the PT pump is incredibly resilient against the low-quality bunker diesel often found in remote ports. This tolerance for dirty fuel is exactly why the NTA855-DM287 commercial vessel auxiliary engine remains the industry standard in global shipping.
Maintenance and Replacement Tips
Marine diesel engines require precise maintenance schedules to avoid costly downtime. HekoPower provides comprehensive support for routine service and complete engine replacements.
CPL Number Identification and Part Accuracy
Ordering parts for an N855-DM287 marine auxiliary engine without verifying the CPL is a frequent mistake. Cummins NTA855-DM287 CPL number identification is the only way to guarantee correct part fitment. The CPL number dictates the precise fuel pump calibration, injector cup size, and turbocharger match. Always provide your CPL code when contacting HekoPower for NTA855-DM287 PT pump injector part numbers or overhaul components.
Overhauls versus Complete Replacements
When an engine reaches 25,000 hours, operators face a decision. An NTA855-DM287 overhaul rebuild kit and CCEC warranty can successfully restore performance if the engine block and crankshaft are structurally sound. The bore and stroke of 140 mm by 152 mm allow for straightforward in-frame cylinder liner replacements.
However, if the block is compromised by cavitation or a spun bearing, purchasing a complete replacement is often more economical than a shipyard rebuild. HekoPower supplies the original Cummins NTA855-DM287 as a complete drop-in package. This genuine Cummins NTA855-DM287 engine arrives factory-tested, slashing shipyard labor costs and vessel downtime.
Common Misconceptions About the NTA855-DM287
Misunderstandings about marine auxiliary engines often lead to poor procurement decisions. Here are a few essential clarifications.
First, buyers often assume all 14-liter engines consume fuel at identical rates. In reality, the Cummins NTA855-DM287 fuel consumption rate of 70 L/h is specific to a 100% full prime load at 1800 RPM. If the ship's electrical load drops to 75%, the consumption falls closer to 53.5 L/h. Sizing the marine generator auxiliary engine to run constantly below 30% load will cause cylinder carbon glazing, not fuel savings.
Second, the terms NTA855 and N855 are used interchangeably by many brokers, which is incorrect. A bare Cummins N855-DM287 block lacks the internal oil cooling jets, high-flow water pump, and heavy-duty pistons required by the turbocharged and aftercooled NTA855-DM287 marine diesel engine. Always ensure your supplier quotes the true "NTA" specification.
Cummins N855-DM Series, Marine Auxiliary Engines for commercial and recreational applications, original products from Chongqing Cummins Engine Plant(CCEC). This series mainly includes NT855-DM180, NT855-DM205, NT855-DM230, NT855-DM240, NTA855-DM264, NTA855-DM284, NTA855-DM287, NTA855-DM306, NTA855-DM313,NTA855-DM317. All engines complete with sea water pump, heat exchanger, CCS/IMO certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the physical dimensions and weight of the engine?
Space is exceptionally tight in any marine engine room. The standard NTA855-DM287 engine dimensions are approximately 1453 mm in length, 947 mm in width, and 1296 mm in height. The dry NTA855-DM287 engine weight, when equipped with a standard marine heat exchanger, is roughly 1420 kg.
Can this engine be certified for marine classification societies?
Absolutely. HekoPower can deliver a CCS certified NTA855-DM287 marine diesel generator drive. We arrange factory inspections to ensure the engine meets IMO Tier II 385 HP marine auxiliary engine for cargo ships standards and holds the necessary classification society paperwork before export.
What is the compression ratio of this engine?
The NTA855-DM287 compression ratio is 14.5:1. This optimized ratio allows for excellent cold starting capabilities while minimizing cylinder pressure stress during continuous heavy-duty maritime operation.
Are you a direct supplier, and what is the delivery time?
Yes, HekoPower is a recognized Cummins NTA855-DM287 supplier China, and we operate as a direct NTA855-DM287 exporter. The CCEC original NTA855-DM287 engine price and lead time depend on the required optional accessories. Standard Cummins NTA855-DM287 lead time from our facility is usually around 15 to 20 working days. For exact NTA855-DM287 engine price details and Cummins NTA855-DM287 wholesale terms, please contact our sales team directly.