History of Perkins Engines - Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series

A History of the Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series Engines

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series represent Perkins’ commitment to engineering excellence in high-performance, heavy-duty diesel engines. Designed to meet the demands of industries requiring powerful and reliable engines, these series have become integral to applications in power generation, construction, industrial machinery, and marine operations. Introduced as part of Perkins’ strategy to cater to the growing market for medium-to-large diesel engines, the 1700 and 2000 Series showcase advanced technology, durability, and emissions compliance.

Development and Launch

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series were developed in response to the increasing global demand for engines that delivered higher power outputs while adhering to stricter environmental regulations. These series were introduced as scalable, efficient, and robust solutions capable of meeting Stage V (EU) and Tier 4 Final (US) emissions standards, as well as the needs of less-regulated markets.

Both series were engineered to offer flexible power solutions, with configurations designed for seamless integration into a wide variety of machinery. They reflect Perkins’ deep understanding of customer requirements across industries, delivering engines that balance performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Key Features and Specifications

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series engines share several advanced features that distinguish them as leaders in their respective categories:

1. Power and Configurations:

   • The 1700 Series features 6-cylinder inline engines with displacements of 9.3 litres, delivering power outputs from 250 kW (335 hp) to 340 kW (456 hp).
   • The 2000 Series includes 6-cylinder inline and V8 configurations, with displacements ranging from 12.5 litres to 15.2 litres, offering power outputs from 350 kW (469 hp) to over 600 kW (805 hp).

2. Fuel Efficiency:

   • Both series utilise advanced fuel injection systems, including common rail technology, for precise fuel delivery and optimised combustion.
   • Improved fuel efficiency reduces operational costs, making these engines ideal for continuous heavy-duty use.

3. Emissions Compliance:

   • Designed to meet global emissions standards, including Stage V (EU), Tier 4 Final (US), and earlier stages.
   • Incorporates technologies such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), and diesel particulate filters (DPF) to significantly reduce particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

4. Durability and Reliability:

   • Built to handle demanding conditions, with robust components ensuring long service life.
   • Designed for high uptime, with minimal maintenance requirements and extended service intervals.

5. Noise and Vibration Reduction:

   • Engineered to minimise noise and vibration, enhancing operator comfort and making the engines suitable for environments where noise regulations apply.

6. Digital Integration:

   • Equipped with electronic control units (ECUs) for advanced diagnostics and performance monitoring.
   • Digital connectivity allows for predictive maintenance and improved fleet management.

Applications

The versatility of the Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series has made them indispensable across a range of industries:

1. Power Generation:

   • Widely used in diesel generator sets for prime and standby power applications, particularly in data centres, hospitals, and industrial facilities.
   • Their reliability ensures consistent power in critical situations.

2. Construction and Industrial Machinery:

   • Powers heavy-duty construction equipment such as excavators, wheel loaders, and large industrial machines.
   • High torque and durability make these engines ideal for challenging work environments.

3. Marine Applications:

   • Adapted for propulsion and auxiliary power in marine vessels, including workboats and leisure craft.
   • Their robust design ensures reliable performance in demanding maritime conditions.

4. Mining and Material Handling:

   • Used in large mining trucks and material handling equipment, where consistent power and durability are essential.

5. Oil and Gas:

   • Provides power for drilling rigs, pumps, and other equipment used in the energy sector.

Variants and Market Reach

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series have been tailored to meet the specific requirements of regulated and less-regulated markets:

• Emissions-Compliant Models: Versions equipped with SCR, DOC, and DPF technologies cater to highly regulated regions in Europe and North America.
• Simplified Models for Less-Regulated Markets: Engines designed without complex aftertreatment systems provide reliable and cost-effective solutions for developing regions.

Legacy and Continuing Evolution

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series have solidified their place as benchmarks for high-power diesel engines. Their success reflects Perkins’ ability to deliver engines that adapt to diverse global needs while maintaining exceptional standards of performance and reliability.

With their modular design and focus on scalability, the 1700 and 2000 Series have laid the groundwork for future innovations in the heavy-duty engine market. Perkins continues to enhance these series, incorporating the latest advancements in digital technology and emissions reduction.

The Perkins 1700 and 2000 Series represent the pinnacle of Perkins’ engineering expertise, delivering powerful, efficient, and reliable solutions for demanding applications. By addressing the challenges of emissions compliance, operational efficiency, and durability, these series have become essential to industries worldwide. Their legacy underscores Perkins’ ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers while setting new standards in diesel engine performance.