History of Perkins Engines - Perkins 904 Series

A History of the Perkins 904 Series Engines

The Perkins 904 Series represents a modern era of diesel engine innovation, designed to deliver high performance, reliability, and compliance with stringent emissions regulations. Introduced in the mid-2010s, the 904 Series was developed as part of Perkins’ strategy to offer compact, efficient engines for medium-duty applications across industries such as agriculture, construction, and industrial power solutions. The 904 Series continues Perkins’ long-standing tradition of engineering excellence while addressing the growing demand for cleaner, more efficient power systems.

Development and Introduction

The Perkins 904 Series was developed to meet the increasing global need for engines that complied with stricter emissions standards, particularly Stage V (EU) and Tier 4 Final (US) regulations. These regulations required significant reductions in particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The 904 Series was engineered to provide not only environmental compliance but also enhanced performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability.

The 904 Series is part of Perkins’ Syncro engine family, which focuses on modularity and scalability to meet a variety of application needs. With its compact design and advanced technologies, the 904 Series is well-suited for equipment where space constraints and operational efficiency are critical.

Key Features and Specifications

The Perkins 904 Series engines incorporate several cutting-edge features, making them a standout in their class:

1. Configurations and Power Range:

   • The series includes 4-cylinder inline engines with a displacement of 2.8 litres and 3.6 litres.
   • Power outputs range from 45 kW (60 hp) to 100 kW (134 hp), providing flexibility for various applications.

2. Emissions Compliance:

   • Designed to meet Stage V (EU) and Tier 4 Final (US) emissions standards.
   • Utilises advanced aftertreatment systems, including diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), diesel particulate filters (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), to reduce emissions effectively.

3. Compact and Lightweight Design:

   • Engineered for applications with limited space, offering a smaller footprint without compromising on performance.
   • Lightweight construction improves fuel efficiency and reduces overall equipment weight.

4. Advanced Fuel Systems:

   • Equipped with high-pressure common rail fuel injection for precise fuel delivery and optimised combustion.
   • Enhanced fuel economy reduces operating costs for end-users.

5. Durability and Reliability:

   • Built to withstand demanding conditions, with a robust design that ensures a long service life.
   • Features extended service intervals and reduced maintenance requirements, improving uptime and productivity.

6. Noise and Vibration Reduction:

   • Advanced engineering minimises noise and vibration, enhancing operator comfort and suitability for urban environments.

Applications

The Perkins 904 Series is designed to power a wide variety of machinery across multiple industries:

1. Agriculture:

   • Ideal for compact tractors, harvesters, and other agricultural equipment.
   • Offers reliable performance for tasks requiring continuous operation in tough conditions.

2. Construction and Industrial Equipment:

   • Commonly used in mini-excavators, skid steer loaders, telehandlers, and other compact construction machinery.
   • Its compact size and emissions compliance make it suitable for urban and restricted environments.

3. Material Handling:

   • Powers forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment, delivering efficient and reliable performance.

4. Power Generation:

   • Used in portable and stationary generator sets, providing dependable power for commercial, industrial, and remote applications.

Technological Advancements

The 904 Series is part of Perkins’ push towards smarter, more connected engines. Many models in the range include electronic control units (ECUs), which provide advanced diagnostics and performance monitoring. This technology allows for predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

Additionally, the 904 Series is designed with modularity in mind, enabling equipment manufacturers to integrate the engines seamlessly into a variety of platforms.

Meeting Global Needs

The Perkins 904 Series was designed with a global market in mind, balancing the needs of highly regulated regions like Europe and North America with those of less-regulated markets. Perkins offers tailored solutions for customers in developing regions, providing reliable and easily serviceable engines that meet local requirements.

Legacy and Continuing Impact

The Perkins 904 Series has set a new standard for compact, medium-duty diesel engines. Its combination of high performance, emissions compliance, and durability has made it a popular choice for equipment manufacturers and operators worldwide. The series continues to evolve, incorporating the latest advancements in fuel efficiency, emissions control, and digital technology.

The Perkins 904 Series is a prime example of Perkins’ commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. By delivering engines that balance power, efficiency, and compliance with modern emissions standards, Perkins has ensured the 904 Series plays a vital role in powering the equipment of today and tomorrow. Its success reflects Perkins’ enduring reputation as a global leader in diesel engine manufacturing.