Perkins has announced the development of the new 2606 diesel engine, specifically designed for electric power generation applications. Set to debut in 2025, this 13-liter six-cylinder engine will initially be available in areas with less stringent regulations and currently unregulated stationary markets.
Leveraging the robust power density and fuel efficiency of the industrial 2600 Series platform introduced in 2023, the 2606 engine offers an impressive output ranging from 321 to 523 kW of prime power and 365 to 572 kW for standby operations. The engine is versatile, allowing for operation at both 50 and 60 Hz, as well as across various voltage levels, making it suitable for diverse regions and applications. Perkins has highlighted its suitability for critical operations, including data centers, power plants, and various industrial and real estate installations.
Jaz Gill, vice president of Perkins global sales marketing, service, and parts, emphasized the importance of generator sets in providing reliable power, particularly in areas lacking stable electrical grids. “Diesel engines continue to be the backbone of these generator sets, and the Perkins 2606 engine leverages our significant investment in the 13-liter platform to deliver a powerful, versatile solution with exceptional performance and low total ownership costs,” Gill stated.
Designed to operate effectively at altitudes up to 3,500 meters and in ambient temperatures ranging from 60°C (140°F) to -40°C (-40°F), the 2600 Series features design enhancements such as a 45% reduction in the number of leak joints, leading to decreased fluid consumption and extended service intervals for oil and fuel filters—now up to 1,000 hours.
Moreover, the 2606 engine is compatible with renewable liquid fuels that meet Perkins’ specifications, including 100% hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO), B100 distilled biodiesel, and B100 fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) standard biodiesel, in collaboration with local Perkins distributors. The engine’s architecture also supports future adaptations for spark-ignited natural gas and hydrogen fuel.
As of now, Perkins engineers have completed over 30,000 hours of design validation, securing more than 120 patents granted or pending across the 2600 Series engine platform. The 2606 engine for electric power generation is anticipated to enter commercial production in the latter half of 2025.
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